Ademola Lookman shattered Bayer Leverkusen’s dreams of an unbeaten season with a stunning hat-trick, leading Atalanta Bergamo to a resounding 3-0 victory in the Europa League final on Wednesday night.
In what was anticipated to be a fiercely contested match, Bayer Leverkusen faced an unstoppable force in Lookman, who had been in scintillating form.
The German club, undefeated in their previous 51 matches, was no match for the Nigerian winger’s brilliance on this decisive night.
Lookman wasted no time in making his mark, opening the scoring just 12 minutes into the game. His electrifying pace and clinical finishing set the tone for Atalanta, who took control early on.
By the 26th minute, Lookman had doubled the lead with a dazzling solo effort, weaving through the Bayer Leverkusen defense and slotting the ball home with ease.
The Italian side went into the halftime break with a commanding 2-0 lead, thanks to Lookman’s first-half heroics.
The second half saw no respite for Leverkusen as Atalanta continued to dominate. Despite Xabi Alonso’s attempts to reinvigorate his team with tactical changes, the German side struggled to contain Lookman and his teammates.
In the 75th minute, Lookman completed his hat-trick, sealing the match and the title for Atalanta with a precise strike that left the opposition’s defense and goalkeeper helpless.
Atalanta’s victory was a testament to their relentless attacking play and Lookman’s exceptional talent.
The final whistle confirmed a historic win for the Italian club, while Bayer Leverkusen faced their first defeat of the season, a bitter end to what had been a remarkable unbeaten run.
Lookman’s hat-trick not only secured the Europa League trophy for Atalanta but also highlighted his emergence as a key player on the European stage.
His performance will be remembered as one of the finest in the competition’s history, a night when he single-handedly dismantled one of the strongest defenses in Europe.
As Atalanta celebrated their triumph, the spotlight remained firmly on Lookman, whose three goals had brought them glory.
For Bayer Leverkusen, it was a night of reflection and disappointment, as their hopes were dashed by a player who delivered a masterclass in attacking football.
