Ademola Lookman and Atletico Madrid edged past Real Sociedad 3-2 in a thrilling La Liga encounter on Saturday that served as a timely dress rehearsal for next month’s Copa del Rey final between the two sides, scheduled for April 18 in Sevilla.

The Super Eagles forward started for Atletico and contributed effectively before being replaced in the 53rd minute, earning a Sofascore rating of 7.2, as Diego Simeone’s side claimed a third consecutive league victory to consolidate third place in the standings with 54 points from 27 games.

The match burst into life as early as the fifth minute when Alexander Sorloth volleyed Atletico ahead against his former club, only for Carlos Soler to restore parity moments later with a fierce left-footed effort into the top corner.

The first half continued at a frenetic pace but ultimately ended level, with Lookman and Giuliano Simeone causing problems for Sociedad’s defence without finding a decisive moment.

The second half produced the drama the occasion promised. Nico Gonzalez gave Atletico the lead after converting Antoine Griezmann’s sublime back-heel assist, but Mikel Oyarzabal responded immediately with a thunderous effort to level again.

With 10 minutes remaining, Gonzalez headed Atletico back in front from the penalty spot, and this time there was no way back for Sociedad.

The result extended Atletico’s unbeaten run against Real Sociedad in La Liga to 13 matches, while the visitors’ away form remains a concern heading into the cup final, with only three wins on the road all season.