Tottenham 3-2 Atletico Madrid (5-7 agg): Lookman stars as Simeone’s men set up Barcelona clash

Ademola Lookman gave a decent account of his talents as Atletico Madrid advanced to the quarterfinal of the UEFA Champions League despite suffering a 3-2 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur in London on Wednesday night, Afrik-Foot reports.

On his return to England, the Nigerian forward produced a lively display, registering an assist and constantly troubling Spurs’ defence before being withdrawn in the second half.

The former Everton winger’s contribution helped Atletico seal a commanding 7-4 aggregate victory and set up a mouth-watering last-eight clash with Barcelona.

Tottenham, already under pressure domestically, began brightly and showed early intent to make a contest of the tie despite trailing heavily from the first leg.

Igor Tudor’s side pressed high and forced Atletico into a series of uncomfortable moments in the opening exchanges.

Lookman thought he had handed the visitors an early advantage when he turned in from close range, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside after a tight VAR check.

The hosts responded with energy, and their persistence paid off midway through the first half. Randal Kolo Muani rose unmarked to head home from a well-delivered cross, reducing the deficit and injecting belief into the home crowd.

Tottenham continued to push, creating several chances through Mathys Tel and their lively forward line, but Atletico held firm to take a narrow lead in the tie into the break.

Lookman influence steadies Atletico as Spurs fight falls short

Atletico responded immediately after the restart, with Lookman once again playing a decisive role.

The winger showed composure and awareness to pick out Julian Alvarez, who spun smartly and fired into the top corner to restore the visitors’ cushion on the night.

Even as Spurs attempted to rally, Lookman remained a constant outlet, carrying the ball forward and linking play before his evening ended just after the hour mark.

Still, Tottenham refused to fold. A fine strike from Xavi pulled another goal back and gave the home side renewed hope, while Guglielmo Vicario produced a series of important saves to keep them within touching distance.

However, Atletico’s experience ultimately told. David Hancko’s header from a corner stretched the aggregate lead further, effectively ending Spurs’ hopes despite a late penalty that added gloss to the scoreline.

Simeone’s side had gotten the job done with professionalism over two legs. There were positives for Tottenham in their fight and attacking intent, but the damage from the first leg proved too much to overturn.

Atletico Madrid now advance to face Barcelona in the quarter-finals in a battle of two La Liga clubs.