Lookman: Simeone reveals reason for subbing out Super Eagle

Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone has come out to explain his decision to substitute Nigeria winger Ademola Lookman as his side went on to lose Copa del Rey final on penalties against Real Sociedad on Sunday.

The match delivered high intensity from the start, with Real Sociedad taking the lead in the 16th second through Barinetchia. Atlético responded later, as Lookman leveled the score 17 minutes later with a strike from inside the box.

 

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Just before halftime, captain Mikel Oyarzabal restored Sociedad’s advantage, converting a penalty in the 45th minute to make it 2-1.

Atlético Madrid pushed hard in the second half and eventually found the equalizer in the 83rd minute through Álvarez, sending the match into extra time. With no further goals scored, the final was decided by a penalty shootout.

Simeone on decision to withdraw Lookman

Real Sociedad were the best, winning 4-2 in the shootout to lift the trophy. However, Lookman was withdrawn in the 62nd minute for Nicolás González.

“I understood that with Sørloth up front we could create more chances and that Julián could fulfil the role Lookman was playing. Then we moved Baena out to the left. That’s how I understood the substitution,” said Simeone after the game.

Simeone added: “There’s not much to say. I am just trying to be there for the players, because they know they put in a massive effort, with a very good second half and extra time.

“The match was decided in the 90 minutes. It was Baena’s chance to score, Johnny’s… they went just wide, they were good attempts, but (Real Sociedad) had the clinical finishing needed and we didn’t.”

Lookman and Atletico will now shift focus to their upcoming league fixture against Elche on Wednesday at Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero.