Lookman Reflects on Bittersweet La Liga Debut as Atletico Madrid Fall at Home

Ademola Lookman has described his La Liga home debut for Atletico Madrid as a “very special moment” despite the team suffering a narrow 1–0 defeat to Real Betis. The Nigerian international winger highlighted both the excitement of making his debut at the Metropolitano and the disappointment of missing key opportunities during the match.

Lookman came close to leveling the score with a well-placed header that was ruled out for a marginal offside and later received a yellow card, but he remained optimistic about the experience. “Not the result we wanted but we stay positive. Very special moment making my debut in the Metropolitano. Aupa Atleti,” he wrote on social media following the game.

READ ALSO:

• Fayose Claims Presidency Told Wike to Respect Fubara or Risk Losing Job
• Nigeria’s Naira Posts Strong Comeback, Breaking Two‑Year High Against Dollar
• Nigeria, U.S. Deepen Security Partnership to Combat Terrorism, Banditry

The defeat ended Atletico’s unbeaten run at the Metropolitano this season, yet Lookman’s performance reflected his pace, skill, and attacking threat, keeping fans and analysts excited about his impact in La Liga. His energy and involvement in Atletico’s offensive play were praised, signaling that the Nigerian forward could become a key figure in the team’s attack in the coming weeks.

This appearance comes after a standout performance in the Copa del Rey, where Lookman scored and assisted in a convincing 5–0 victory over Real Betis, marking an impressive start to his career at Atletico Madrid after moving from Atalanta. His speed, dribbling, and finishing ability have already earned recognition from fans and football pundits alike.

Lookman expressed his happiness at joining Atletico Madrid, calling the move a “blessing” and emphasising his eagerness to adapt, improve, and contribute in Spain’s top flight. His arrival is seen as a boost not only for the club but also for Nigerian football representation in Europe, with compatriot Umar Sadiq praising the talent and impact Lookman brings to the league.

Despite the loss, Lookman’s bittersweet debut offers hope for Atletico fans as the team navigates La Liga and Copa del Rey commitments. Analysts suggest that if Lookman continues his promising form, he could play a pivotal role in Atletico’s attacking strategy, helping the club compete for domestic titles while maintaining his rising profile in European football.

As he settles into his new environment, Lookman’s La Liga debut stands as both a learning experience and a statement of intent, showing that the Nigerian star is ready to shine on one of football’s biggest stages.

Lookman Reflects on Bittersweet La Liga Debut as Atletico Madrid Fall at Home

Manchester City Stun Liverpool at Anfield with 93rd-Minute Winner

Manchester City produced a breathtaking late comeback to defeat Liverpool 2–1 at Anfield in a match packed with controversy, momentum swings, and Premier League title implications.

The game came alive in the 74th minute when Liverpool’s Dominic Szoboszlai curled a stunning free kick into the net, sending the home crowd into raptures and putting the Reds ahead. At that point, it seemed Liverpool were on course for a crucial three points.

However, City, true to their reputation for resilience, refused to lie down. Just ten minutes later, Bernardo Silva struck a powerful equaliser, swinging momentum in Pep Guardiola’s favour.

READ ALSO:

• Osimhen Scores 15th Goal of Season as Galatasaray Defeat Rizespor
• 18-year-old housewife allegedly cut off her husband’s manhood in Yobe
• Black Sunday in Kano: Deadly Road Accident Claims More Than 30 Lives

Manchester City continued to press relentlessly for a winner, and their efforts were rewarded deep into stoppage time. In the 93rd minute, Erling Haaland calmly converted from the penalty spot, completing a dramatic turnaround and silencing the home supporters.

The drama escalated further when Szoboszlai was shown a red card moments after scoring for a late foul on Haaland, compounding Liverpool’s frustrations and capping off a chaotic finale.

The victory breathes new life into Manchester City’s title charge, as they now sit six points behind league leaders Arsenal. For Liverpool, the defeat leaves them sixth on the table with 39 points, with their focus now shifting to securing European football rather than competing for the title.

Anfield witnessed pure footballing madness, with Manchester City once again walking away with all three points in a game that will be remembered for its late drama and intense rivalry.

Manchester City Stun Liverpool at Anfield with 93rd-Minute Winner

Nigerian Footballer Dies from Catastrophic Brain Injury in UK

The football community is mourning the tragic death of Nigerian non-league footballer Saburi Olayinka Adeniji, who passed away in the United Kingdom following a catastrophic brain injury. Adeniji, a winger for Kings Park Rangers in Halstead, Essex, died on Friday, January 26, 2026, just one day before his wife and four-year-old daughter could reach his bedside.

Adeniji had been admitted to intensive care on January 25 after suffering a severe brain stem injury. Medical staff reportedly delayed switching off life support in the hope that his family would arrive in time, but tragically, they reached the UK a day too late.

The Kings Park Rangers football club expressed deep sorrow in an official statement, saying:

“It is with great sadness that we must announce our number 17 Saburi Adeniji ‘Ola’ passed away yesterday morning. He fought so hard to still be here for when his family arrived. His wife and daughter unfortunately arrived this morning, a day late. He will always be a King. He will always be loved. As a friend, as a dad, as a husband, as a brother and as a son. R.I.P Saburi Adeniji.”

READ ALSO:

• 2Baba Breaks Silence on Quarrel with Wife Natasha During London Trip
• Electoral Malpractice: President Mahama Orders Immediate Recall of Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria
• Nigeria’s Unity Under Scrutiny: IPOB, US Lawmaker Clash Over Christian Safety

The club rallied around Adeniji’s family, launching a fundraising appeal to support them with travel, accommodation, and other expenses. The appeal has already raised more than £16,000 of its £17,000 target. According to the fundraising page, the money will assist with emergency visa applications, travel, and accommodation, and will also support his wife and daughter in Nigeria, including his daughter’s education.

“Saburi leaves behind a four-year-old daughter, whom he adored. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family and was deeply committed to giving his daughter a good education and a better future,” the fundraising appeal noted.

In a tribute, Kings Park Rangers waived gate fees for recent matches, redirecting proceeds to the family, observed a minute’s silence before their match against Henley Athletic, and organised additional fundraising events. The club thanked the public for their overwhelming support.

Friends, teammates, and supporters have taken to social media to pay tribute, remembering Adeniji as a dedicated footballer, loving father, and devoted husband. His untimely death is a stark reminder of the risks athletes face and the importance of medical readiness, rapid intervention, and player welfare.

“This is a moment for the football world to come together — players, clubs, teammates, supporters, and friends. Every donation, no matter how small, will make a real difference to a young family facing unimaginable heartbreak,” the fundraising page added.

Saburi Adeniji’s passing has left a profound void in both the Nigerian and UK football communities, with his talent, dedication, and love for his family being fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Nigerian Footballer Dies from Catastrophic Brain Injury in UK