Ademola Lookman had a difficult start in La Liga as Atletico Madrid lost 1-0 at home to Real Betis on Sunday at the Wanda Metropolitano.

The Nigerian forward, who made his league debut after joining Atletico from Atalanta in January, had an early goal ruled out for offside as Atletico failed to capitalise on their chances in a game decided by a moment of excellence from Betis winger Antony.

Lookman was key to Atletico’s attacking activity in the early stages, and he appeared to have made his entire league debut with a goal midway through the first half.

The Super Eagles forward finished clinically inside the area, but VAR ruled the attempt out for offside, cutting short the euphoria inside the stadium.

Despite the setback, Lookman continued to provide pace, movement, and direct running, regularly occupying Betis centre-backs Natan and Diego Llorente.

As the game went, Betis became more compact, limiting Lookman’s influence in advanced areas.

The visitors defended in numbers and forced Atletico into wide areas, limiting the efficiency of crosses into the box. Álvaro Vallés, Betis’ goalkeeper, made crucial stops in the second half as Atletico attempted to equalise.

Lookman, who was eventually replaced, was one of Simeone’s primary offensive threats throughout the game.

The final whistle confirmed Lookman’s first league defeat in Spanish football, which contrasted sharply with his encouraging cup performance earlier in the week.

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