Ademola Lookman aims to end his goal drought against Arsenal as Atlético Madrid prepare for a decisive Champions League semi-final clash in London

Ademola Lookman, Nigerian forward for Atlético Madrid, 2026, will aim to break his long scoring drought against Arsenal FC when both sides meet in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final at the Emirates Stadium in London.

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The tie remains evenly poised at 1-1 after a tense first-leg encounter in Madrid, leaving everything to play for as both teams battle for a place in the final scheduled for May 30 in Budapest.

Lookman delivered a strong all-round performance in the first leg despite failing to score, registering high passing accuracy, multiple shots on target, and contributing defensively in a disciplined display that drew praise from his coach Diego Simeone.

Simeone highlighted the forward’s growing tactical discipline, noting that his defensive contribution has become an important part of Atlético Madrid’s structure as the team adapts its attacking balance.

The Lookman Arsenal goal drought narrative has added extra attention to the fixture, as the Nigerian forward has failed to register a goal or assist in six previous meetings against the English side.

Former teammate Michel Adopo has backed Lookman to make an impact in the return leg, describing him as a player capable of decisive moments on the biggest stage.

Atlético head into the match with renewed confidence following a league win over Valencia, although frustration lingered over missed opportunities in the first leg where they created several clear chances but failed to secure an advantage.

Arsenal, meanwhile, remain unbeaten in the competition this season, adding further intensity to what is expected to be a tightly contested semi-final battle.

Both sides are expected to field near full-strength line-ups as they chase a place in the Champions League final, with Atlético aiming for their first appearance in a decade.

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Attention will now turn to whether Lookman can finally convert his strong performances into goals and help tilt the tie in Atlético’s favour on one of European football’s biggest stages.