Ademola Lookman provided a crucial assist as Atlético Madrid secured qualification for the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League despite a 3–2 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur F.C. in Wednesday’s round of 16 second leg clash, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Atlético progressed with a 7–5 aggregate victory, having built a commanding advantage with a 5–2 win in the first leg.
With Spurs leading 1–0, Lookman played a key role in the equaliser early in the second half, cutting inside on the counter before laying a precise pass for Julián Álvarez, who fired into the top corner in the 47th minute.
Randal Kolo Muani had earlier opened the scoring for the hosts in the 30th minute, while Xavi Simons netted twice, including a late penalty, to give Tottenham victory on the night. Atlético’s second goal came through David Hancko, who headed home from a corner to level the score at 2–2 before Spurs struck again late on.
At Anfield, it was a disappointing night for Victor Osimhen, who was forced off with injury as Liverpool FC overturned their first-leg deficit to thrash Galatasaray SK 4–0, sealing a 4–1 aggregate win.
Elsewhere, Bayern Munich booked their place in the last eight with a dominant 4–1 victory over Atalanta BC, progressing 10–2 on aggregate.
The quarter-final lineup is now confirmed, with blockbuster ties set to follow. Paris Saint-Germain F.C. will face Liverpool, FC Barcelona will take on Atlético Madrid, and Real Madrid CF will meet Bayern Munich. Arsenal F.C. will square off against Sporting CP.
The results capped a dramatic round of 16, with Nigerian stars experiencing mixed fortunes on Europe’s biggest club stage.