Nigeria Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman and his manager Gian Piero Gasperini sheathed their sword after the heated exchange in midweek to destroy Empoli in the Serie A.
Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman showed his exceptional talent again by scoring two goals in Atalanta’s commanding 5-0 victory over Empoli on Sunday.
This performance came just days after a public fallout with his manager, Gian Piero Gasperini, following a disappointing exit from the UEFA Champions League.
 "Ademola Magic: Lookman steals show with brace as 5-star Atalanta take out UCL frustration on Empoli 1")
The world football body recently banned Congo, Pakistan, and Russia from participating in the 2026 World Cup, but they are not the first to be dealt such a blow. Here are 12 countries that have been suspended by FIFA.
 "Ademola Magic: Lookman steals show with brace as 5-star Atalanta take out UCL frustration on Empoli 2")
Okocha came to the defence of his compatriot over Gasperini’s recent comments
Lookman’s first goal was a masterclass in composure, as he deftly dribbled past the Empoli goalkeeper before tapping the ball into an empty net.
He followed this with a powerful left-footed strike after a solo run, sealing his brace and helping Atalanta bounce back from their midweek frustrations.
Ademola Lookman scored a fantastic brace for Atalanta.
The match began with an own goal from Empoli’s Gyasi, which set the tone for Atalanta’s dominance.
Matteo Retegui added to the scoreline with his 21st goal of the season before assisting Lookman for a third goal just before halftime.
Lookman has now scored three goals in two matches for Atalanta.
Lookman scored again early in the second half, and Davide Zappacosta capped off the scoring with the fifth goal to wrap things up.
In the aftermath of the midweek Champions League exit, where Lookman missed a penalty and was publicly criticised by Gasperini as “one of the worst penalty takers” he had ever seen, both parties sought to mend their relationship.
Ademola Lookman missed from 12 yards against Club Brugge. (Photo Credit: UEFA)
Lookman responded to Gasperini’s remarks by describing them as “deeply disrespectful,” emphasising his commitment to the club and clarifying that he had been instructed to take the penalty by the designated taker during that match.
However, ahead their trip to Empoli, Gasperini stated, “The player felt offended, but I did not mean to offend anyone,” acknowledging Lookman’s significant contributions to the team.
Man of the match, Lookman in action.
He expressed hope that Lookman, who has now responded with another superb display, could develop into a reliable penalty taker in the future.
This emphatic win not only restores Atalanta’s confidence but also shows Lookman’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
Comment and Earn N5.... comments are approved manually by admin.. Comment must be long and from the post.. short comments will not be approved