Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman made his return from injury as Atlético Madrid secured a 1-1 draw against Arsenal in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final clash on Wednesday night.

The Nigerian international, who joined the Spanish side during the winter transfer window, delivered a full 90-minute performance despite fitness concerns leading up to the encounter.

Lookman had been sidelined after sustaining an injury during Atletico’s defeat to Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey Final, missing key La Liga fixtures including the 3-2 loss to Elche CF and the 3-2 victory over Athletic Bilbao at the Wanda Metropolitano.

His absence had raised doubts over his availability for the high-stakes European tie, but he was ultimately deemed fit to start and played a crucial role in Atletico’s attacking setup.

Arsenal took the lead late in the first half through a penalty converted by Viktor Gyökeres, before Julián Álvarez restored parity early in the second half, also from the spot.

Lookman came close to finding the net on multiple occasions, including a back-post effort that sailed over the crossbar and a 74th-minute attempt that was comfortably saved by goalkeeper David Raya.

Although Atletico were unable to secure a first-leg advantage, Lookman’s return provides a significant boost for manager Diego Simeone ahead of the decisive second leg at the Emirates Stadium, where both sides will battle for a place in the final.

Adeyemi Adewale