Ademola Lookman: Ex-Chelsea ace reveals why Super Eagles star struggled vs Barcelona

Former Chelsea forward Salomon Kalou has backed Ademola Lookman after the Super Eagles star delivered a quiet but disciplined display in Atlético Madrid’s 2-0 win over FC Barcelona in their UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg on Wednesday, Afrik-Foot reports.

Lookman, who has been one of Atlético’s most dangerous attackers in recent months, was far less involved going forward at the Spotify Camp Nou. Instead, he spent much of the game tracking back and helping his team defend, as Diego Simeone’s side focused on structure and discipline.

Kalou believes that tactical demand explains why the Nigerian did not look at his usual best.

“In this kind of game, I am sure he didn’t enjoy the match because he had to defend more than he had to attack,” he told SuperSport.

“His strength is to go forward but still when you have the victory you are happy to go back home, knowing that you have the chance to qualify for the semis.”

It was a different kind of performance from Lookman. He still showed flashes of quality, even hitting the woodwork, but his role was clearly more about balance than brilliance. Earlier in the season, he had hurt Barcelona with a goal and an assist in a more open game, but this time Atlético approached things differently.

Kalou also made it clear that Lookman’s reputation remains strong across Africa.

“I hope he will get there because he is a great player and all Africans will be rooting for him,” he said.

What the result means for Lookman’s Atlético Madrid

Atlético Madrid now carry a strong 2-0 advantage into the return leg at the Wanda Metropolitano, and the situation is clear under current UEFA rules.

With the away goals rule no longer in place, Atlético will qualify for the semi-finals if they win or draw the second leg, or even if they lose by just one goal. That gives Simeone’s side a strong cushion heading into the decisive match.

For Barcelona, the task is simple but difficult. They must win by at least two goals to force extra time. A victory by three or more goals would see them complete a dramatic comeback and progress.

There are also other factors that could shape the contest. Barcelona will be without defender Pau Cubarsí after his red card in the first leg, which could weaken their defensive stability. At the same time, their attacking quality means they cannot be ruled out, especially given their history of producing big European nights.

The second leg also presents a different opportunity for Lookman. With Atlético playing at home, there may be more space to attack, which suits his strengths. Having already contributed two goals and four assists in the competition this season, he will hope to play a bigger role going forward.

The tie remains finely balanced, but Atlético’s discipline has given them control. Now, it is about finishing the job.