A brilliant performance from Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman on Wednesday night saw him hit two major milestones in Atalanta’s emphatic 3-0 UEFA Champions League triumph over Shakhtar Donetsk.
The Nigerian forward not only scored his first-ever goal in the prestigious competition but also provided a crucial assist, leading his team to their first victory of the campaign, Footballrover reports.
Ademola Lookman delivered a standout performance in Atalantaās away victory over Shakhtar Donetsk.
Lookman’s display earned him the Man of the Match award as La Dea bounced back from a goalless draw against Arsenal in their previous group stage game.
The Nigerian international first made his mark in the 21st minute, delivering a precise assist for Berat Djimsiti to open the scoring.
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— Atalanta B.C. (@Atalanta_BC) October 2, 2024
Just before halftime, Lookman found the back of the net himself, bagging his first Champions League goal.
The strike came courtesy of an assist from former Arsenal defender Sead Kolasinac, putting Atalanta comfortably ahead at 2-0.
Lookmanās Champions League breakthrough
With Lookman at the heart of the action, Atalanta continued to pile pressure on Shakhtar, adding a third goal shortly after the break through Raoul Bellanova.
The 26-year-old forward was subbed off in the 60th minute, having already left a solid impact on the match.
His efforts propelled Atalanta up to seventh place in the group standings, now with four points after two games.
A rising starās consistency in Europe
Lookmanās stellar form this season continues, with five goal involvements across all competitions in just six matches (three goals and two assists).
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— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) October 2, 2024
UEFAās Technical Observer Panel praised his well-rounded performance, noting his creativity, tactical intelligence, and defensive work rate.
Lookman not only scored and assisted but also created two additional chances and rattled the crossbar.
“Its nice to receive these awards, wouldn’t have been able to do it without the team and the team had a very good performance today. I’m very happy with the victory. I think tonight’s victory is very important to us in making our steps stronger in Europe, so we’re happy,” Lookman said after the game.
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