By Our Correspondent

National News – Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has explained why he substituted Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman during the Copa del Rey final loss to Real Sociedad on Saturday night in Spain.

The match, held at a packed stadium in Spain, saw Real Sociedad win on penalties after a 2-2 draw over 120 minutes.

Lookman, who joined Atlético in the winter transfer window, scored in the 18th minute to equalise after Real Sociedad’s early 14-second opener by Ander Barrenetxea.

However, Simeone withdrew him shortly after the hour mark, a tactical decision that sparked debate among fans and analysts.

Simeone said the substitution was a tactical adjustment aimed at reshaping Atlético Madrid’s attacking structure after Real Sociedad took control at moments of the Copa del Rey final in Spain on Saturday.

He explained that bringing on Sørloth allowed a different attacking reference in the box, while Julián Álvarez was repositioned to fill Lookman’s creative role on the left flank.

The decision came after Atlético fell behind 2-1 at half-time, following an early goal by Ander Barrenetxea and a penalty converted by Mikel Oyarzabal after a foul by goalkeeper Juan Musso.

Despite criticism, Simeone insisted the change was meant to increase chance creation and physical presence in attack.

The match eventually ended 2-2 after Álvarez’s late equaliser in the 83rd minute, forcing extra time.

However, Real Sociedad won 4-3 on penalties. Lookman’s performance remained notable, as he continued his strong run since joining in January, recording his 11th goal contribution.

Attention now turns to Atlético’s upcoming UEFA Champions League semi-final against Arsenal, where Simeone will aim to bounce back and build momentum despite the Copa del Rey defeat and ongoing tactical scrutiny.