Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman will headline a decisive UEFA Champions League knockout play-off clash as Atlético Madrid host Club Brugge at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.
The tie remains delicately poised after a thrilling 3-3 draw in the first leg in Belgium, where both Lookman and fellow Nigerian star Raphael Onyedika delivered standout performances.
First-Leg Drama in Belgium
At the Jan Breydel Stadion, Atletico raced into a two-goal lead. Julián Álvarez opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Lookman reacted quickest to a flick from Antoine Griezmann, finishing clinically to make it 2-0.
However, Brugge mounted a spirited comeback. Onyedika pulled one back after a rebound from a save by Jan Oblak, then provided a precise assist for Christos Tzolis to level the contest at 3-3.
Suspension Blow for Brugge
Brugge face a major setback with Onyedika suspended after his booking for a foul on Marcos Llorente triggered an automatic ban. His absence leaves coach Ivan Leko with a significant midfield gap ahead of the crucial return leg.
Key Form and What’s at Stake
Lookman has been in electric form since his January move, contributing four goals and six assists in six matches. Under manager Diego Simeone, Atletico have won three of their four Champions League home games this season, underlining their strength in Madrid.
With the aggregate score tied, victory for either side secures a place in the Champions League Round of 16, while another high-scoring encounter could force extra time in what promises to be a dramatic European night.
