Ademola Magic: Lookman steals show with brace as 5-star Atalanta take out UCL frustration on Empoli

Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman showed his exceptional talent again by scoring two goals in Atalanta's commanding 5-0 victory over Empoli on Sunday. 

This performance came just days after a public fallout with his manager, Gian Piero Gasperini, following a disappointing exit from the UEFA Champions League.

Lookman’s first goal was a masterclass in composure, as he deftly dribbled past the Empoli goalkeeper before tapping the ball into an empty net. 

He followed this with a powerful left-footed strike after a solo run, sealing his brace and helping Atalanta bounce back from their midweek frustrations. 

The match began with an own goal from Empoli's Gyasi, which set the tone for Atalanta's dominance. 

Matteo Retegui added to the scoreline with his 21st goal of the season before assisting Lookman for a third goal just before halftime. 

Lookman scored again early in the second half, and Davide Zappacosta capped off the scoring with the fifth goal to wrap things up.

In the aftermath of the midweek Champions League exit, where Lookman missed a penalty and was publicly criticised by Gasperini as "one of the worst penalty takers" he had ever seen, both parties sought to mend their relationship.

Lookman responded to Gasperini's remarks by describing them as "deeply disrespectful," emphasising his commitment to the club and clarifying that he had been instructed to take the penalty by the designated taker during that match.

However, ahead their trip to Empoli, Gasperini stated, “The player felt offended, but I did not mean to offend anyone,” acknowledging Lookman's significant contributions to the team. 

He expressed hope that Lookman, who has now responded with another superb display, could develop into a reliable penalty taker in the future.

This emphatic win not only restores Atalanta's confidence but also shows Lookman's resilience and ability to perform under pressure.