Lookman shines as StarTimes watch party lights up Lagos despite

Football fans in Lagos were treated to an electric night of football and entertainment as StarTimes hosted a vibrant Copa del Rey final watch party in Surulere, turning Citi Lounge into a buzzing centre of excitement.

The event, designed to bring supporters closer to the action, drew a diverse crowd eager to watch Atlético Madrid take on Real Sociedad — with Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman firmly in the spotlight.

Although Atlético suffered a 4–3 penalty shootout defeat following a 2–2 draw, the atmosphere in Surulere remained electric, driven in large part by Lookman’s standout display.

The final delivered high drama from start to finish, with Atlético fighting back twice to stay in contention. Lookman sparked wild celebrations among Lagos fans when he netted the first equaliser, becoming only the second Nigerian to score in a Copa del Rey final after Finidi George in 1997.

“I screamed like I was inside the stadium,” said attendee Chinedu Okafor. “When Lookman scored, the whole place erupted. It felt like Nigeria had won the trophy.”

Sociedad regained the lead before the break through Mikel Oyarzabal’s penalty, but Atlético responded late in the game, with Julián Álvarez equalising in the 83rd minute to force extra time.

Both sides pushed for a winner, with Álvarez coming closest after striking the crossbar, but neither could find the decisive goal, sending the contest to a tense shootout.

Sociedad held their nerve to win 4–3 on penalties, with missed efforts from Alexander Sørloth and Álvarez proving costly. Pablo Marín converted the decisive kick to seal the victory.

Despite the result, Lookman’s performance stood out as a major highlight for fans.

“Honestly, Lookman gave us something to celebrate,” said Aisha Bello. “Yes, Atlético lost, but seeing a Nigerian score in a final like this is special. That’s what we came for.”

Beyond the on-pitch action, attendees praised the overall experience, describing the event as immersive and well-organised, with giveaways and interactive activities adding to the festive mood.

“It was more than just watching football,” said Tunde Adeyemi. “The screen quality, the vibe, the crowd — everything made it feel like a real matchday. And the fact that it was free made it even better.”

Sola Ajayi also highlighted the sense of community. “Football is better when shared with people who understand the game. Tonight felt like a mini stadium in Surulere.”

Guests also had opportunities to win branded merchandise and subscription packages, enhancing the interactive nature of the event.

For many, the night further underlined Lookman’s growing influence at Atlético since his arrival earlier this year. His goal in the final adds to a string of important contributions, reinforcing his reputation as a player for big moments.

“Lookman is carrying us along on this journey,” said Ibrahim Lawal. “From the Europa League to now, he keeps delivering. Nigerians are proud of him.”

With the Copa del Rey title slipping away, Atlético now turn their attention to a UEFA Champions League semi-final clash against Arsenal, amid lingering questions about their form.

For fans in Lagos, however, the watch party delivered exactly what it promised — a memorable night of football, connection and shared emotion, where the experience mattered just as much as the result.