Ademola Lookman shines as Atlético Madrid thrash Barcelona 4-0 in Copa del Rey semi-final

Atlético Madrid put on a stunning show as they swept aside Barcelona 4–0 in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final, with Ademola Lookman leading the charge in front of a roaring home crowd, footynaija.com reports.

The Nigerian winger was full of energy, speed and confidence from the first whistle, causing problems every time he ran at the Barcelona defence. His sharp movement and quick thinking helped Atlético take control early and never look back.

The breakthrough came in unusual fashion when a loose back pass from Barcelona’s defence rolled into their own net, handing Atlético a dream start. The goal seemed to shake the visitors, and the hosts quickly took advantage.

What a finish from Ademola Lookman!
Goal and Assist against Barcelona!
4-0 first half! Wowww!

pic.twitter.com/tARMLNCMIQ

— Buchi Laba (@Buchi_Laba) February 12, 2026

Soon after, Antoine Griezmann raced through on goal and calmly placed his shot into the corner to make it 2–0. Atlético kept pushing forward, playing fast and direct football that Barcelona struggled to deal with.

Lookman then got his deserved moment, racing into the box to meet a low cross and firing a powerful first-time shot past the goalkeeper for the third goal. Just before half-time, the Super Eagles star turned provider, setting up Julián Álvarez to smash in the fourth and complete a brilliant first half.

For the first time in 16 years Atlético de Madrid scored four goals in a match against Barcelona without conceding.

New signing Ademola Lookman scored and provided an assist⚽️ 🅰️ pic.twitter.com/7QO1EncoQh

— Leagues Reporter (@LeaguesReporter) February 12, 2026

After the break, Atlético, led confidently from the touchline by Diego Simeone, slowed the game down and stayed organised. Barcelona tried to respond but found little space, and even a disallowed goal only added to their frustration.

A late red card summed up a difficult night for Barcelona, while Atlético Madrid comfortably saw out the match.

With such a big lead, Atlético head into the second leg full of confidence, leaving Barcelona and their coach Hansi Flick facing a huge challenge to turn things around.