Ademola Lookman’s Hat-Trick Inspires Atalanta to Europa League Glory, Bayer Leverkusen winning streak ends

Mussa May 22, 2024

In a thrilling UEFA Europa League final, Atalanta BC emerged victorious, defeating Bayer Leverkusen 3-0. The hero of the night was none other than Ademola Lookman, who delivered a stunning hat-trick. Let’s dive into the match highlights and explore how Lookman’s performance left Leverkusen in awe.

Xabi Alonso's Bundesliga champions completed their undefeated league campaign with a 2-1 win over Augsburg at the weekend and they had not been beaten in any of their 51 games this term, It meant the end of a historic effort that has captured the imagination of football fans across Europe and beyond, but Atalanta are also wonderful story.

Veteran coach Gian Piero Gasperini is a tireless innovator and an expert when it comes to nurturing young talent, along with elevating gifted players who have fallen on hard times or short of their potential.

In that respect, former Everton and RB Leipzig youngster Lookman was the perfect matchwinner on the greatest night of the Serie A club’s existence. After three Coppa Italia final defeats in the Gasperini era, Atalanta can finally celebrate their first piece of silverware since 1963.

Lookman’s Hat-Trick

12th Minute: Lookman fired in a back-post finish after a brilliant angled ball from Davide Zappacosta. Leverkusen’s defense was caught off guard, and Lookman capitalized on the opportunity.

26th Minute: Lookman showcased his individual brilliance, weaving his way to the edge of the box and smashing a low effort past the exposed Leverkusen goalkeeper, Matĕj Kovář.

75th Minute: Completing his famous treble, Lookman steadied himself before blasting a powerful left-footed strike into the top corner. With this goal, he became the first player ever to score a hat-trick in a Europa League final.

Leverkusen’s Unbeaten Run Ends

Bayer Leverkusen’s remarkable 51-game unbeaten streak came to an end. Despite their phenomenal season, they couldn’t contain Lookman’s relentless attack. Xabi Alonso’s team simply ran out of steam against Atalanta’s high press and Lookman’s clinical finishing.

Gasperini’s Triumph

For Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini, this victory marked the first major trophy of his long career. The Italian side’s brave performance and Lookman’s heroics secured their place in history.