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Ademola Lookman, fresh from his historic triumph as the 2024 African Player of the Year, marked his return to action with another standout performance for Atalanta.
On Sunday, the Nigerian forward was instrumental in his team’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Empoli in a Serie A clash at the Gewiss Stadium.
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Celebrating African excellence
Before the match, Lookman presented his recently won African Player of the Year trophy to the jubilant Atalanta fans, a gesture well applauded by the jubilant crowd.
The award won just days earlier in Marrakesh, Morocco, underscores Lookman’s exceptional form and growing influence on the global stage.
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Lookman’s Impact in five-goal thriller
Lookman, who was rested during Atalanta’s midweek 6-1 Coppa Italia win over Cesena, returned to the starting lineup with vigour.
Despite a shaky start for Atalanta, as Lorenzo Colombo gave Empoli an 11th-minute lead, the hosts gradually found their rhythm.
Charles De Ketelaere equalised in the 34th minute with a composed finish, but Lookman restored Atalanta’s advantage just before halftime with yet another clinical finish.
The second half saw Empoli level the score through a Samuele Esposito penalty, making it 2-2 in the 55th minute.
ALSO READ: #CAFAwards2024: Lookman, Nnadozie shine in Morocco (Full list of Winners)
However, De Ketelaere delivered again, scoring the decisive goal to secure a hard-fought 3-2 victory for Atalanta.
Record-breaking year for Atalanta
De Ketelaere’s second goal was Atalanta’s 124th in all competitions in 2024, breaking the club’s record for goals in a calendar year—a milestone that dates back to 1929-30.
124 – Atalanta record goals in a single calendar year in all competitions since 1929/30:
2024 – 1⃣2⃣4⃣
2021 – 123
2020 – 103
2019 – 99Unstoppable.#AtalantaEmpoli pic.twitter.com/tBfE4Jfzcn
— OptaPaolo (@OptaPaolo) December 22, 2024
The win also marked Atalanta’s 11th consecutive Serie A victory, cementing their place at the top of the table as they head into the Christmas break.
Despite being substituted in the 70th minute for Lazar Samardzic, Lookman’s performance was undeniable.
With nine goals and four assists in 14 Serie A appearances this season, Lookman continues to be a cornerstone of Atalanta’s title charge and Champions League aspirations.
