Reigning African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman, expressed his joy after netting a goal during Atalanta’s commanding 5-0 victory over Austrian champions Sturm Graz in Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League clash, as reported by PUNCH Sports Extra.
“Just doing what I do,” Lookman posted on social media Wednesday, accompanying his statement with images of his celebratory moment.
The Super Eagles star entered the game at the start of the second half and made an immediate impression. Despite having a goal ruled out and setting up Charles De Ketelaere for a disallowed effort, Lookman found the back of the net late in the match with a well-timed header at the far post.
The 26-year-old, however, missed two golden opportunities, being thwarted twice in quick succession by Sturm Graz goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen before sending a one-on-one chance over the bar.
His fourth goal of this Champions League campaign confirmed Atalanta’s progression to the knockout play-offs. The Italian side now requires just a draw in their January 29 fixture against Barcelona to secure direct qualification for the round of 16.
Lookman’s standout performance earned him the Player of the Match award, receiving an impressive rating of 8.46 from the BBC.
The former Everton forward has been in red-hot form this season, tallying 14 goals and seven assists in 26 appearances across all competitions. His Serie A contributions include 10 goals and five assists in 18 matches, helping Atalanta climb to third place in the league table.
Lookman’s exceptional displays also saw him crowned the 2024 African Footballer of the Year last month, becoming the sixth Nigerian to claim the honor. He follows in the footsteps of Victor Osimhen, who was the 2023 recipient of the prestigious award.
