Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman opened his goal account for 2025 during Atalanta’s narrow 2-3 loss to Napoli at the Gewiss Stadium.
Lookman’s strike was his 13th goal of the season and provided a moment of hope in a thrilling top-of-the-table clash.
A Brighter Moment in a Tough Start
After a standout 2024 season, where Lookman delivered 22 goals and 13 assists in 46 appearances, the Nigerian international experienced a slow start to the new year.
He failed to register a goal or assist in his first three matches against Inter Milan, Udinese, and Juventus.
However, against Napoli, Lookman showcased his brilliance, leveling the score in the second half with a stunning solo effort.
2 – For the first time in #SerieA history, two #Atalanta players scored at home and away against Napoli in a single edition of the tournament: #Lookman (2 goals at the Maradona Stadium and 1 at the Gewiss Stadium) and #Retegui (1 goal in each match). Couple. pic.twitter.com/Fw9q17woib
— OptaPaolo (@OptaPaolo) January 18, 2025
Trailing 2-1 at halftime after goals from Matteo Politano and Scott McTominay canceled out Mateo Retegui’s opener, Lookman provided Atalanta a lifeline.
Picking up the ball near the box, he nutmegged Giovanni Di Lorenzo, surged past three defenders, and rifled a low shot into the bottom corner.
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Historic Feat and a Missed Opportunity
Lookman’s goal marked a historic moment for Atalanta, as it was the first time two of their players—Lookman and Retegui—scored at home and away against Napoli in a single Serie A season according to Opta.
The Nigerian had previously bagged a brace in Atalanta’s commanding 3-0 win at the Diego Maradona Stadium earlier in the campaign.
Despite Lookman’s contribution, Atalanta could not secure the win. After being substituted in the 77th minute for Nicolò Zaniolo, Napoli’s Romelu Lukaku struck the decisive goal just a minute later, sealing the victory for the visitors.
