Arsenal ended the UEFA Champions League ambitions of Ademola Lookman after a 1-0 second-leg victory over Atletico Madrid secured a 2-1 aggregate win and a place in the final.
Lookman featured for an hour in the decisive semi-final clash at the Emirates Stadium before being replaced by Johnny Cardoso, as Atletico failed to overturn the Gunners.
The Nigerian forward had limited impact in the contest, with his only notable contribution arriving early in the second half when his header from the centre of the box, assisted by Marc Pubill, was blocked.
In the game, Lookman completed 12 of 13 passes with a 92 per cent accuracy rate and maintained a perfect record in the opposition half, completing all eight of his passes.
He registered one shot, which was blocked, and completed two successful dribbles, while winning two of four ground duels and one aerial contest.
However, he struggled to impose himself in attacking areas, recording no key passes or assists and showing minimal defensive involvement before his withdrawal as Atletico chased the game.
The decisive moment of the tie came just before half-time when Bukayo Saka scored the only goal of the match, reacting quickest to convert the rebound after Jan Oblak parried a shot from Leandro Trossard.
Atletico had started brightly, with Julián Alvarez and Giuliano Simeone both going close, but Arsenal gradually took control and limited the visitors’ attacking threat as the match progressed.
Despite late pressure, including a chance for Alexander Sørloth, Atletico were unable to find an equaliser, as Arsenal’s disciplined defensive display secured their progression to only their second Champions League final.
Lookman’s exit brings an end to his European campaign, in which he made 14 appearances across spells with Atalanta and Atletico following his €35m move during the winter transfer window.
He registered three goals and three assists in the competition.
The result also means there are no Nigerian players remaining in the Champions League this season, with attention now shifting to the Europa League, where Ola Aina and Terem Moffi are among those still involved for their respective clubs.
Credit: punchng.com
