Ademola Lookman etched his name into Atalanta folklore on Wednesday night, inspiring the Italian side to their first major trophy in 61 years with a stunning hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen.
The Nigerian winger stole the show in Dublin, dismantling a previously unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen side 3-0.
Lookman’s goals secured La Dea’s maiden European title and brought a remarkable end to Leverkusen’s incredible 51-game unbeaten run. The German side, boasting the continent’s hottest unbeaten streak, were left shell-shocked by the Nigerian’s brilliance.
The Atalanta winger’s predatory instinct was on full display throughout the match. His first goal, a clinical finish after a flowing team move, settled any early nerves for the Italian side.
He then doubled their lead with a powerful curling shot in the 26th minute, leaving Leverkusen with a mountain to climb.
The second half was a masterclass in counter-attacking football from Atalanta. Lookman completed his historic hat-trick with a scorching strike late in the game, sending the travelling Atalanta fans into raptures.
The victory marks a watershed moment for Atalanta, a club known for its attacking flair and commitment to youth development.
Manager Gian Piero Gasperini hailed Lookman’s performance: “Ademola was unplayable tonight. His finishing was exceptional, and he truly deserves the credit for this historic win.”
For Leverkusen, the defeat brings a heartbreaking end to a remarkable unbeaten run. Despite their impressive form, and wrapping up the Bundesliga title undefeated, they were simply outclassed by a rampant Atalanta side inspired by the brilliance of Ademola Lookman.
The German champions have another opportunity to win their second silverware of the season when they come up against Kaiserslautern in the final of the DFP Pokal on Saturday, May 25.