Ademola Lookman returned to action for Atalanta to make Champions League history despite the club’s shock exit against Club Brugge.
In a dramatic match that saw Atalanta exit the UEFA Champions League, Ademola Lookman made history by becoming the first Nigerian player to score in four consecutive Champions League appearances.
His remarkable achievement came despite the club’s shock 3-1 defeat to Club Brugge in the second leg of their playoff on Tuesday night.
 "Lookman makes Champions League history with 35-second goal as 'first Nigerian' despite Atalanta heartbreak 1")
The Old Lady have tabled a move to the current Europa League champions to bring the Nigerian forward over to Allianz Stadium in the summer.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Soccer News in Nigeria from Pulse Sports
 "Lookman makes Champions League history with 35-second goal as 'first Nigerian' despite Atalanta heartbreak 2")
Which Super Eagles star will light up the weekend of football?
Lookman, returning from injury, made an immediate impact after coming off the bench at halftime, scoring just 35 seconds into his return.
However, the night took a turn for the worse when he stepped up to take a decisive penalty in the second half.
Ademola Lookman, who missed the first leg, gave Atalanta hope after just 35 seconds with his historic goal.
With Atalanta trailing 5-2 on aggregate and desperate for a comeback, Lookman took responsibility for the penalty kick ahead of teammates Mateo Retegui and Charles De Ketelaere but unfortunately failed to convert.
This miss allowed Brugge to maintain their lead and ultimately secure qualification to the round of 16, marking a historic moment as they became the first Belgian team to advance this far in the Champions League era.
Ademola Lookman misses from 12 yards against Club Brugge. (Photo Credit: UEFA)
Despite this setback, Lookman’s scoring record has been a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing campaign for Atalanta.
His achievement of scoring in four successive Champions League matches highlights his growing reputation as one of Africa’s most talented forwards.
Lookman returned with a bang but ended up as a villain.
However, Lookman’s performance has not gone without controversy. Following the match, Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini criticised him harshly for his penalty miss. Gasperini stated:
“Ademola Lookman is one of the worst penalty takers I’ve ever seen. He took the ball despite Retegui and De Ketelaere being available to take it… I didn’t like what Lookman did.”
Brugge shocked Atalanta at home.
This tirade has drawn significant backlash from Nigerian fans and football supporters who have rallied around Lookman, calling Gasperini’s comments disrespectful and unjustified.
Many fans have taken to social media to express their support for Lookman, urging him to consider his future at Atalanta amidst such criticism.
Comment and Earn N5.... comments are approved manually by admin.. Comment must be long and from the post.. short comments will not be approved