Ademola Lookman marks return with goal in Atalanta’s win over Empoli

By Monsurah Olatunji

Reigning African Player of the Year, Ademola Lookman, made a triumphant return to Atalanta’s starting lineup on Sunday, scoring in their thrilling 3-2 victory over Empoli at the Gewiss Stadium.

Lookman, who missed the 6-1 Copa Italia win over Cesena earlier in the week, was given a warm reception by the fans as he presented his African Player of the Year award before the match.

His gesture was met with great appreciation from the passionate Atalanta supporters.

Atalanta started the match with high energy but found themselves trailing in the 11th minute. Empoli’s Lorenzo Colombo took advantage of space in the box and converted a pass from Liam Henderson to put the visitors ahead.

However, Atalanta quickly responded. In the 34th minute, Davide Zappacosta delivered a well-placed cross into the box, which Charles De Ketelaere headed into the net to level the score.

Just before halftime, Lookman showcased his goal-scoring abilities, latching onto a cross from Nicolò Zaniolo and calmly poking the ball home to give Atalanta a 2-1 lead.

Lookman, who now has 8 goals and 4 assists in just 13 league appearances this season, was substituted in the 69th minute for Lazar Samardzic but had already made a significant impact on the game.

Empoli fought back in the second half and earned a penalty, with Samuele Esposito converting to make it 2-2. However, Atalanta regained the lead in the dying minutes of the match.

De Ketelaere, who had earlier scored, netted his second goal of the night with just four minutes remaining, securing all three points for Gian Piero Gasperini’s side.

Atalanta’s victory saw them leapfrog Napoli into the top spot in Serie A, with Lookman continuing to play a crucial role in their title challenge and Champions League aspirations.