Despite not scoring or contributing to their 1-1 tie with Arsenal on Wednesday night in the UEFA Champions League first-leg semi-final match, Diego Simeone has praised Ademola Lookman.
Before the second leg at the Emirates Stadium, the Premier League team forced Atlético Madrid to a 1-1 draw at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano in Madrid, setting up another tight match.
Just before halftime, Viktor Gyökeres gave Arsenal the lead with a penalty kick, but Julián Álvarez tied the score with another penalty after a handball that was verified by VAR.
The former Atalanta attacker played the full 90 minutes after recovering from an injury that prevented him from playing in their last two league games. He completed an amazing 95% of his passes in the opposition half, including one crucial pass.
Lookman made four shots in all, two of which were on goal. He was unfortunate to miss two significant opportunities to score.
It’s interesting to note that Lookman was aware of his defensive responsibilities in addition to his offensive stats. The Nigerian international blocked an Arsenal shot, won two tackles, and produced two interceptions in his five defensive contributions.
To the pleasure of his coach, who has wanted more from him defensively, the 28-year-old also made two recoveries and won seven of ten duels to help the hosts keep Arsenal away from their danger areas.
At the press conference following the game, Simeone stated, “I loved Lookman’s game; we’re getting an important player to understand that his defensive work helps us,” according to Marca.
However, Lookman has yet to score or provide an assist in six encounters with Arsenal, continuing his drought against the Gunners. Simeone was quick to point out that the English team has a characteristic that makes them a formidable foe.
“You saw the five of their players who entered the game. They are excellent and have more than enough skill to compete.” In the Champions League, they have won ten games, drawn three, and not lost. Our opponent is an outstanding team.
Arsenal will rely on home advantage to defeat Atlético Madrid and advance to their second-ever Champions League final in the return leg, which takes place at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.
However, Atlético will be hoping that Lookman and his teammates attend the celebration to make their first final participation in ten years.
About The Author
