Ademola Lookman is back brighter, sharper, and more confident than he has looked all season. The Nigerian forward struck again on Sunday as Atalanta defeated Fiorentina 2–0 in Serie A, marking the first time this campaign that he has scored in back-to-back matches.
With the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) just weeks away, Lookman’s resurgence comes at the perfect moment for both Atalanta and the Super Eagles.
Lookman Finds His Rhythm Under Palladino
Lookman’s goal was more than a number on the scoreboard; it was a reflection of restored clarity and belief. Under new head coach Raffaele Palladino, the winger appears energised, decisive, and fully reengaged.
Against Fiorentina, he delivered one of his most complete attacking displays of the season, showing:
- 24 passes completed
- Three chances created
- 100% dribble success
- 100% accuracy in final passes
The 27-year-old looked electric and purposeful, reminiscent of his very best spells in Bergamo. His speed, creativity, and decisiveness in the final third all returned in full flow.
A Timely Boost for Nigeria
Lookman’s turnaround will delight Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle, who has been waiting for one of his biggest attacking weapons to rediscover form ahead of AFCON 2025.
His combination of pace, precision, and clinical finishing makes him indispensable for the Super Eagles’ hopes of challenging for the continental title in Morocco.
Champions League Spark That Ignited His Revival
Sunday’s goal capped a brilliant week for Lookman, one that began with a standout performance in Atalanta’s 3–0 Champions League win over Eintracht Frankfurt, a game in which he ended a six-match drought for club and country.
That match featured a sensational five-minute attacking blitz:
A Five-Minute Masterclass
- 60th minute: Lookman smashed home a precise cross from Charles De Ketelaere to break the deadlock.
- 62nd minute: He stormed down the left and squared the ball for Ederson, who calmly slotted in Atalanta’s second.
- 65th minute: De Ketelaere finished off the flurry with Atalanta’s third.
It was Lookman at his ruthless best, scoring, assisting, creating, and leading the charge.
Palladino Praises Team Spirit After Big Week
After the Fiorentina victory, Palladino avoided spotlighting individuals but praised the collective effort that delivered the win.
“It couldn’t have gone better; it was a magical night,” he said. “This is the victory of a great group of lads who deserved this satisfaction.”
He added that the team needed “a spark to shake things up” and believes that spark has now arrived.
Atalanta on the Rise
The win lifted Atalanta to their third victory in five Champions League group matches, taking them to 10 points and positioning them 10th in the overall standings.
More importantly for La Dea, Ademola Lookman is back in top gear and just in time for a crucial stretch for club and country.
