Ademola Lookman scored a sensational hat-trick as Atalanta ended a 61-year trophy drought, crushing Bayer Leverkusen’s unbeaten season in the Europa League final at a boisterous Aviva Stadium.
In their first European final, Atalanta faced off against Leverkusen, who had not lost in 51 games this season under Xabi Alonso. The German side, two matches away from perfection, were undone by Lookman’s brilliance.
The former Charlton Athletic winger opened the scoring by placing the ball in the top corner from Davide Zappacosta’s cutback. Lookman’s second goal was a stunning solo effort, nutmegging Granit Xhaka and curling a shot into the bottom corner from 20 yards. He completed his hat-trick with a step-over to beat Edmond Tapsoba before firing into the roof of the net.
Despite their reputation for dramatic comebacks, Leverkusen could not overcome the tactical masterclass from Atalanta’s Gian Piero Gasperini and Lookman’s inspired performance. This victory secured Atalanta’s first trophy since the 1963 Coppa Italia and guaranteed their place in next season’s Champions League.
The Lookman Show
Ademola Lookman’s hat-trick made him the sixth player to score a hat-trick in a European final and the first since 1975. Lookman’s performance overshadowed Leverkusen’s unbeaten run, with Atalanta showing no fear in the face of the German side’s formidable record.
Gasperini, who has transformed Atalanta from a yo-yo club into European regulars since 2016, finally secured his first trophy with the club. The team, still reeling from a Coppa Italia final loss to Juventus, came out determined and fired up for the biggest game in their history.
Lookman, a 2022 signing from RB Leipzig, delivered in spectacular fashion, scoring twice within minutes and securing the quickest two-goal lead in a tournament final since Liverpool in 2001. His hat-trick was a masterclass, leaving Leverkusen and their fans stunned.
Leverkusen’s Unbeaten Streak Ends
Despite the loss, Leverkusen’s season remains historic as they became the first team to go unbeaten in a Bundesliga season. However, their dream of an unbeaten European campaign was shattered. This defeat marked their first in 361 days.
Leverkusen had shown resilience throughout the season, coming back from two-goal deficits four times. However, this time, despite moments of hope, such as Alex Grimaldo’s saved chip and Xhaka’s missed chance, they couldn’t find the quality needed to stage another comeback.
A late VAR check for a penalty, which was not awarded, underscored their fate. Leverkusen must now regroup quickly as they prepare for the German Cup final against second-tier Kaiserslautern in Berlin, aiming to complete a domestic double.
Quotes and Analysis
Reflecting on the victory, Atalanta’s Gasperini lauded Lookman’s performance and the team’s resilience. “Ademola was exceptional, and the team showed immense character,” he said.
Leverkusen’s Alonso, despite the loss, remained proud of his team’s season. “This defeat is painful, but it doesn’t diminish what we’ve achieved,” he stated. The focus now shifts to their upcoming cup final, where redemption awaits.