By Ohuakanwa Chibuzo
Ademola Lookman continues to make headlines, both in Serie A and on the European stage. The Super Eagles’ star delivered another stellar performance as Atalanta triumphed 3-0 over Torino, dealing a significant blow to AS Roma’s hopes of qualifying for the next season’s UEFA Champions League.
In a decisive Serie A clash, Gianluca Scamacca and Ademola Lookman netted first-half goals for Atalanta, with Mario Pasalic adding a penalty after the break. This victory propelled Atalanta to fourth place, one point ahead of Bologna. Lookman’s contributions were instrumental, showcasing his remarkable form following a hat trick in Atalanta’s 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League final just days earlier.
Atalanta’s victory is pivotal as the team still has a game against Fiorentina, which could further impact the standings. Meanwhile, sixth-place Roma, who played Empoli later, needed Atalanta to drop to fifth to secure a Champions League spot.
In addition to his domestic success, Lookman, along with compatriot Victor Boniface, has been shortlisted for the prestigious Europa League Goal of the Tournament award. UEFA’s Technical Observer panel selected the top ten goals from the 2023-2024 Europa League season, highlighting Lookman’s standout performance against Bayer Leverkusen and Boniface’s remarkable goal for Bayer Leverkusen against Qarabag.
Boniface’s long-range effort during Bayer Leverkusen’s 5-1 victory over Qarabag was a highlight, increasing the lead to 3-1. Lookman made history as the first player to score a hat trick in a Europa League final, leading Atalanta to their first-ever European title. His second goal from this match has been nominated for the award.
The competition for the Goal of the Tournament award is fierce. Lookman and Boniface face contenders including Marseille’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who has been nominated twice, and West Ham United’s Mohamed Kudus. Other nominees include João Pedro (Brighton), Darwin Núñez (Liverpool), David Douděra (Slavia Prague), Rafael Leão (AC Milan), and Robert Andrich (Bayer Leverkusen).
Lookman’s extraordinary performance has earned him the Player of the Week title for his display against Bayer Leverkusen, surpassing notable players such as Éderson, Piero Hincapie, and Davide Zappacosta. Additionally, he has been named in the Europa League Team of the Season, having scored five goals in eleven matches.
As Lookman continues to dazzle on both domestic and international stages, his accolades reflect his growing influence and exceptional talent in the world of football.
