Match Report

May 1, 2026

Elche CF secured a remarkable 3-2 victory over Atlético Madrid in a thrilling La Liga encounter, a match that Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman missed due to injury. This result was a significant blow for Atlético, who felt the absence of their key attacker at a crucial point in the season.

Ademola Lookman, who joined the Spanish side during the winter transfer window, had been sidelined after sustaining an injury during Atlético's defeat to Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey Final. His absence raised doubts over his availability for important fixtures, including this league clash against Elche CF and the 3-2 victory over Athletic Bilbao at the Wanda Metropolitano.

Despite missing the Elche CF game, Lookman made his anticipated return on May 1st, 2026, playing a full 90-minute performance in Atlético Madrid's 1-1 draw against Arsenal in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final. His comeback provides a significant boost for manager Diego Simeone ahead of the decisive second leg at the Emirates Stadium.

In that Champions League fixture, 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.

Elche CF's 3-2 victory over Atlético Madrid underscores the unpredictability of La Liga and the ability of teams to surprise giants, especially when the latter face significant absences. This triumph was crucial for Elche's league aspirations and demonstrated their strength at home.

While Atlético Madrid managed a Champions League draw with Lookman's return, the prior defeat to Elche CF highlighted the challenges Diego Simeone's side faced during a period of key player injuries, impacting their La Liga performance.