Ademola Lookman’s brilliant brace leads Atalanta to Empoli thrashing

By Dayo Awoniyi

Ademola Lookman responded to his manager’s criticism in the best possible way, scoring a brilliant brace to help Atalanta thrash Empoli 5-0 in a Serie A encounter on Sunday.

The Super Eagles winger’s performance was key in reducing the gap between Atalanta and Serie A leaders Inter Milan to just three points.

After being criticized by manager Gian Piero Gasperini following Atalanta’s Champions League exit, Lookman made sure to prove his doubters wrong with a stellar display.

The Italian game began with Atalanta applying pressure, and their efforts paid off in the 28th minute when Emmanuel Quartsin Gyasi’s own goal put them ahead.

Mateo Retegui doubled the lead before Lookman struck his first goal just before halftime.

The second half saw continued dominance from Atalanta, with Lookman scoring his second goal in the 55th minute.

Davide Zappacosta completed the rout, rounding off the 5-0 victory for the home side.

The win marked Atalanta’s first victory since February 8th and moved them up to 54 points from 26 matches, just three points behind Inter Milan. With this commanding result, Atalanta has firmly re-entered the title race.