By Our Correspondent
National News – Ademola Lookman is aiming to end his long goal drought against Arsenal when Atlético Madrid travel to London for the second leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.
The Nigerian forward, who has struggled to score in six previous meetings with the English side, is central to Diego Simeone’s attacking plan as the tie remains level at 1-1 after the first leg in Madrid.
The match at the Emirates Stadium carries high stakes, with the winner set to face either Bayern Munich or Paris Saint-Germain in the final in Budapest on May 30.
Lookman impressed in the first leg with high passing accuracy, multiple shots, and strong defensive work, earning praise from his coach for his tactical discipline and team contribution.
Simeone emphasized that the attacker’s defensive effort is now as important as his finishing, highlighting his growing role in Atlético’s system and their push for a place in the final.
The first leg ended in a 1-1 draw after Atlético created several chances but failed to capitalize, with Arsenal taking the lead through a Viktor Gyökeres penalty before Julián Álvarez equalised from the spot following a handball by Ben White.
Lookman also missed key opportunities but still showed promise in attack and transition play.
Ahead of the decisive clash, Atlético boosted confidence with a league win over Valencia, while Simeone rotated his squad to rest key players.
The Spanish club will rely on their experience in European knockout football, including past success against Arsenal in the Europa League, to try to secure qualification.
Former teammate Michel Adopo has publicly backed Lookman to score, saying the Nigerian is now more mature and ready to deliver in big moments at a top club.
All eyes will be on the forward as Atlético seek their first Champions League final in a decade and Arsenal aim to maintain their unbeaten European run.
Kick-off is expected to draw global attention as both sides chase a place in the Champions League final.
