Super Eagles star Lookman grows in confidence after United winner

Ademola Lookman says he is growing in confidence and believes he can improve further after scoring in Atlético Madrid’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

The Nigerian forward who continues to make his mark on European football‘s biggest club stage, came off the bench to seal Atlético’s victory at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, extending Manchester United’s difficult run of form.

Pablo Barrios opened the scoring inside the first minute, finishing Álex Baena’s pass after just 53 seconds to give Diego Simeone’s side an early advantage.

Manchester United struggled to contain Atlético’s attacking threat but created opportunities to equalise. Bryan Mbeumo missed chances, while captain Bruno Fernandes also failed to convert his opportunities.

Atlético thought they had doubled their advantage before half-time through Johnny Cardoso, but the goal was ruled out following a VAR review for handball in the build-up.

Ademola lookman makes the difference

The decisive moment came in the second half when Manchester United defender Leny Yoro received a straight red card following a VAR review of his challenge on Jonathan David.

Lookman had the ball in the net during the sequence, but play was stopped for the review before Yoro was dismissed.

The Nigerian forward eventually got his goal in the 79th minute, reacting quickest after goalkeeper Senne Lammens saved David’s effort to convert the rebound and make it 2-0.

His strike sealed the victory for Atlético, who managed the closing stages to claim an important result in their Champions League campaign.

Lookman goal represented another significant contribution at the highest level of European club football, further highlighting the influence of African players in elite competitions.

Lookman targets further improvement

Speaking after the match, Lookman expressed satisfaction with his progress, insisting that he could continue to improve while contributing to the team whenever called upon.

“I can only get better and better, and I’m very happy. Obviously, coming on and helping the team is important. I just bring the energy and try to help the team, you know, defensively and offensively when I get a chance to,” he said.

The forward also praised his teammates for their performance before his introduction, noting that their efforts made it easier for him to settle into the game.

“The guys put on a big performance before I came on, so, you know, it’s easy to come into this team and play. So, yeah, very happy with the team’s performance,” Lookman added.

He described the victory as a significant boost for Atlético ahead of their next fixture, stressing the importance of maintaining momentum from one match to another.

“Of course, we know how big of a win that is for us. It gives us confidence for the next game. So, yeah, game after game,” he said.

Nigeria hopes to benefit from Lookman’s form

Lookman’s growing confidence will also be encouraging for Nigeria as the Super Eagles prepare for their upcoming international assignments.

The forward will be expected to carry his club form into the national team, where his attacking contributions could prove valuable in Nigeria’s forthcoming fixtures.

With his latest Champions League goal and stated determination to keep improving, Lookman will be looking to build on his performance as he continues his pursuit of consistent form at club and international level.

The post Super Eagles star Lookman grows in confidence after United winner appeared first on Made In Africa Sport.