Ademola Lookman‘s remarkable hat trick shattered Bayer Leverkusen’s 51-game unbeaten streak in the 2023/24 Europa League final, held in Dublin on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. His two quick goals in the first half not only secured victory for Atalanta but also marked a historic moment in European football.
Atalanta’s Triumph: Breaking Records and Sealing Victory
Lookman’s stellar performance ensured Atalanta’s first major European trophy since 1963, making them the first Italian team to win the UEFA Cup/Europa League since Parma in 1999. Reflecting on the win, Lookman expressed his elation, describing it as one of the best nights of his life.
This victory also guarantees Atalanta a spot in the UEFA Champions League next season (2024/25) and sets them up to face the winner of the Real Madrid vs. Borussia Dortmund match in the UEFA Super Cup later this year.
Ademola Lookman’s Journey: From Struggles to Triumph
Ademola Lookman’s journey from his roots in Wandsworth to professional football has been marked by highs and lows. Despite setbacks at clubs like Everton, RB Leipzig, Fulham, and Leicester City, Lookman found his stride at Atalanta, where he has excelled with 30 goals in 76 appearances before his historic hat trick in the Europa League final.
Making History: Lookman’s Monumental Achievements
Lookman’s performance in the final not only secured victory but also etched his name in the annals of European football history. He became the first African player to score twice in the final of a major UEFA competition and the first to achieve a hat trick in a major UEFA final, joining a select group of Nigerian players who have made similar feats.
Atalanta’s triumph over Bayer Leverkusen, despite the latter’s formidable record, showcased the team’s quality and resilience under the guidance of coach Gian Piero Gasperini. Leverkusen’s hopes of a treble were dashed by Lookman’s heroics, as Atalanta’s defensive strength and relentless pressure kept them at bay.
Highlighting Key Moments: Lookman’s Hat Trick and Atalanta’s Dominance
Lookman’s hat trick, including his memorable goals and Atalanta’s defensive prowess, highlighted the match’s key moments. From Lookman’s early strike to his sublime finish in the 75th minute, the final encapsulated Atalanta’s dominance and Leverkusen’s struggle to regain control.
As Lookman celebrates his first major trophy at the senior level, his victory underscores Nigeria’s strong presence in the Europa League and adds another chapter to the success stories of Nigerian footballers in European competitions.
