Ademola Lookman’s highly anticipated La Liga debut for Atlético Madrid ended in disappointment on Sunday as Real Betis secured a 1–0 victory at the Wanda Metropolitano, handing Atletico their first home defeat in 11 months and avenging their heavy Copa del Rey defeat earlier in the week.
Just days after Atlético Madrid thrashed Real Betis 5–0 in the Copa del Rey quarter-final — with Lookman impressing on debut by scoring and assisting in the rout — the tables were turned in La Liga on Sunday.
Betis took the lead in the 28th minute when Brazilian forward Antony struck from outside the box, giving the visitors a memorable win on Atletico’s home turf.
The defeat ended Atletico’s 11-month unbeaten home run in La Liga, highlighting the significance of the loss and the intensity of Betis’s revenge for the earlier cup defeat.
Despite Lookman’s involvement and several promising moments — including an Atletico goal ruled out by VAR for offside — the hosts could not find an equalizer.
Lookman had nearly repeated his Copa del Rey heroics when his early shot flashed just past the post, and later an effort that would have levelled the game was disallowed after a lengthy VAR review.
The Nigerian winger was substituted in the 70th minute as Atletico searched in vain for an equalizer.
How They Stand in LaLiga
In the current La Liga standings, Atletico Madrid sit third with 45 points from 23 matches, remaining ahead of fourth‑placed Villarreal but now 13 points behind league leaders Barcelona after their recent setbacks.
Betis, with 38 points, occupy the fifth position, keeping their push for European qualification alive.
Coach Diego Simeone acknowledged the team’s tactical struggles after the match, admitting that Atletico failed to break down Betis’s disciplined defence, despite dominating possession.
He thanked fans for their support but stressed the need for tactical adjustments as the club juggles multiple competitions.
The historic home defeat leaves Atletico’s title ambitions in jeopardy, underlining ongoing inconsistency in league form.
Meanwhile, Betis’s victory is seen as a statement win that could boost confidence in their race for continental football next season.
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