Ademola Lookman has silenced his critics in the most spectacular way possible. The Nigerian international netted twice in a blistering performance that helped Atalanta to a resounding 5-0 victory over Empoli in Serie A. The match not only boosted Atalanta’s chances in the league but also showcased Lookman’s immense quality after a challenging week, further cementing his place as one of the club’s most dangerous attacking assets.
The match, played on Sunday at Atalanta’s home ground, was a testament to the kind of electrifying football that fans have come to expect from the Nigerian forward. Having endured some harsh criticism following Atalanta’s embarrassing defeat to Club Brugge in the Champions League, Lookman made sure to turn the spotlight back on his talents with an impeccable performance that left no doubt about his quality.
A Dream Start for Atalanta
The tone for the match was set early, as Atalanta looked hungry to bounce back from a disappointing week. The first real breakthrough came in the 27th minute, but it was courtesy of a stroke of misfortune for Empoli. Emmanuel Gyasi, trying to clear a dangerous shot from Atalanta’s attackers, instead put the ball past his own goalkeeper into the net, gifting Atalanta the opening goal.
Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini was visibly relieved, but he knew there was more to come from his side, especially with Lookman in the lineup. And just five minutes after the unfortunate own goal, the home side seemed to be on the attack again. Lookman found himself on the receiving end of a foul in the penalty box, yet despite the clear protests from Atalanta’s players, the referee waved away their penalty appeals.
Lookman’s Moment Arrives
As the first half wore on, Atalanta continued to dominate possession and territory, creating several chances. In the 32nd minute, Mateo Retegui doubled the lead with a clinical strike from an assist by Berat Djimsiti, ensuring Atalanta had a comfortable cushion. Despite a brief VAR check that momentarily halted the celebration, the goal stood, and Atalanta now had a 2-0 lead.
Then came the moment that the Atalanta faithful had been eagerly anticipating. The 43rd minute saw Mateo Retegui turn from goal-scorer to provider. Retegui threaded a perfectly timed pass through the Empoli defense, and Lookman, as he has done countless times before, capitalized on it with ease. With one swift surge of pace, he found himself one-on-one with Empoli goalkeeper Marco Silvestri, and without hesitation, Lookman fired a venomous shot past the keeper into the back of the net. Atalanta were in full control, leading 3-0 as they headed into the halftime break.
Lookman’s Double: A Dazzling Display
The second half was more of the same for the visitors as they continued their ruthless pursuit of goals. Just ten minutes into the second half, Lookman completed his brace in the 55th minute. After receiving the ball inside the box, he demonstrated his sharp dribbling skills, evading two Empoli defenders before unleashing a low and powerful strike into the bottom corner of the net. Silvestri, having no time to react, could only watch as Lookman’s second goal brought the score to 4-0.
“I’ve been working hard on my game, and it feels good to respond like this,” Lookman said after the match. “There’s always pressure, but I know that if I focus on doing my job, the goals will come.”
Empoli’s misery was compounded in the 74th minute when Davide Zappacosta rounded off the dominant display by scoring the fifth and final goal. After a run from deep, Zappacosta finished with precision to ensure a resounding victory for the visitors.
Empoli’s Frustration
The match was not without controversy, as Empoli had their own claims for a penalty in the 60th minute. Junior Sambia was brought down in the box during a scramble, but the referee refused to give a penalty. Empoli’s players were visibly frustrated, but the referee’s decision was final, and the scoreline remained unaltered.
“Of course, we felt like there were some calls that didn’t go our way,” Empoli manager Paolo Zanetti commented after the match. “But we can’t use that as an excuse. Atalanta were simply the better side today.”
Lookman: A Hero for Atalanta
At the end of the match, it was clear that Lookman was the star of the show. The 25-year-old Nigerian forward had not only scored twice but had been a constant threat to Empoli’s defense. His pace, creativity, and clinical finishing were on full display, proving once again that he is a key player for Atalanta.
“Ademola showed his character today,” said Gasperini, Atalanta’s manager. “We know what he’s capable of, and he responded in the best way possible. This was the Lookman we’ve come to know and love.”
With this victory, Atalanta solidified their position in the upper half of the Serie A standings, and Lookman’s brace was an important step in ensuring that the team stays competitive in Italy’s top division.
The forward’s response to his earlier criticism was also symbolic of his resilience and professionalism. While his performance against Club Brugge in the Champions League had led to some questioning of his form, Lookman’s attitude on the pitch demonstrated that he had learned from that setback and had come out stronger.
Looking Ahead
As Atalanta continues to fight for a European spot in Serie A, Lookman’s form will undoubtedly be crucial. His recent performances suggest that he is hitting his stride just when the team needs him most. If Lookman can maintain this level of play, Atalanta could very well be on their way to securing another season of European football, with Lookman playing a leading role.
For now, though, it is clear that Ademola Lookman is the man of the moment. His brace against Empoli was not just about the goals but about his ability to rise above challenges and deliver when his team needed him the most. In football, as in life, it’s not about how you start but how you respond – and Lookman has responded in the most spectacular fashion.
Key Takeaways:
- Ademola Lookman scores twice in Atalanta’s dominant 5-0 victory over Empoli.
- Lookman’s brace and all-around performance show his quality after a week of criticism.
- Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini praises Lookman’s resilience.
- Empoli’s penalty appeals denied, leaving them frustrated with the result.
- With this victory, Atalanta remains firmly in the race for European qualification.
