Ademola Lookman has shed light on the mentality that powered Atlético Madrid to a dramatic comeback despite going two goals down against FC Barcelona in their UEFA Champions League clash.

Atlético Madrid booked their place in the semifinals for the first time since the 2016–17 season after edging Barcelona 3–2 on aggregate, with Lookman emerging as the hero of the night at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.

Read Also: Brommapojkarna Confirm Bidemi Amole Loan Move from Real Sapphire

The Spanish side were stunned early on as Barcelona raced into a two-goal lead, putting Diego Simeone’s men under intense pressure.

However, Lookman’s vital strike before halftime proved to be the turning point, swinging momentum back in Atlético’s favour.

Speaking after the game, Lookman expressed his delight at the team’s achievement and collective effort:

“I’m very, very happy, of course, to play in this competition and to be here. It shows the credit to the staff, team, everybody in terms of the work and dedication, and the quality as well in this squad.

It wasn’t easy today but everybody dug in and everyone showed their hard work.”

The Nigerian forward admitted that going two goals down was a major challenge but highlighted the importance of key moments in reigniting belief:

“Definitely going 2–0 down is not easy. They had the momentum at that time, and Juan comes up with a massive save against Fermín. Key moments like that give everybody belief to keep going — you will get your moments.”

He also revealed the crucial halftime message that inspired Atlético’s comeback:

“To stay positive. Stay positive in the work in terms of what we believe in, knowing again we’ll get the moments for sure and we did.

In the end, we got the result that we wanted and that’s the most important thing.”

Lookman’s performance and words perfectly captured Atlético Madrid’s trademark resilience, as they once again proved their ability to rise under pressure on Europe’s biggest stage.

The post Lookman Reveals Secret Behind Atlético Madrid’s Comeback Spirit Against Barcelona, Ready For Arsenal or Sporting Cp appeared first on Sports247 Nigeria.

Nigerian internationals Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi played the full 90 minutes, while Samuel Chukwueze made a late appearance as Fulham suffered an away defeat to Liverpool on Matchday 32 of the English Premier League.

READ ALSO: NNL: Crown FC Escape Relegation Despite Final Day Defeat

At a lively Anfield contest, Fulham struggled to match Liverpool’s intensity, with the home side asserting control in key moments of the game.

Despite the defeat, Bassey delivered a disciplined performance at the back, making crucial interventions and maintaining defensive structure under sustained pressure from Liverpool’s attack.

Iwobi, operating in midfield, showed flashes of creativity and industry, attempting to link play between defence and attack.

The Super Eagles star covered significant ground and looked to drive Fulham forward, but the visitors found it difficult to break through Liverpool’s organized setup.

Chukwueze was introduced in the 80th minute, replacing Harry Wilson, as Fulham pushed for a late response. However, his brief involvement was not enough to alter the outcome, with Liverpool managing the closing stages effectively to secure the win.

The result leaves Fulham just outside the midtable positions with 44 points from 32 matches, as they continue to search for consistency in the final stretch of the season.

Meanwhile, Liverpool remains on fifth place on 52 points, strengthening their bid for a UEFA Champions League spot next season.

While the outcome did not favor Fulham, the consistent involvement of Bassey and Iwobi underscores their importance to the team’s setup.

As the campaign approaches its conclusion, the London club will be aiming to regroup quickly and finish the season on a positive note.

The post Bassey, Iwobi And Chukwueze Feature as Fulham Fall to Liverpool Defeat appeared first on Sports247 Nigeria.

Martin O’Neill has expressed his delight at having Kelechi Iheanacho back from injury, but has challenged the striker to rediscover his best form as Celtic enter the decisive stage of the season.

Speaking after Iheanacho’s return to action, O’Neill acknowledged the impact injuries have had on the forward since his arrival at the club.

“It disrupted him,” he said, pointing to the challenges the Nigerian faced in maintaining consistency.

Despite those setbacks, the manager is optimistic about what Iheanacho can offer, especially as Celtic push for success in the closing weeks of the campaign.

“I’m happy he’s back,” he noted.

However, O’Neill made it clear that simply returning from injury is not enough.

He revealed that he has had an honest and direct conversation with the striker about his career trajectory and expectations moving forward.

“We spoke about it,” he explained.

The message was simple, Iheanacho must rediscover the form that once made him one of the most promising forwards in the game.

“He has to find his peak again,” O’Neill implied.

For Iheanacho, the challenge now is to build on his recent performances and deliver consistently, both in terms of goals and overall contribution.

With Celtic chasing silverware, every player is expected to perform at their highest level.

The manager’s comments reflect both belief and demand, confidence in Iheanacho’s ability, but also a clear expectation of improvement.

For fans, the striker’s return offers hope, but also raises questions about whether he can reach the level required.

As the season approaches its climax, all eyes will be on Iheanacho.

Because in football, talent opens the door.

But consistency keeps you in the room.

The post ‘He Must Rediscover Himself’: O’Neill Challenges Iheanacho — Celtic Boss Wants Nigerian Back To Peak Form appeared first on Sports247 Nigeria.