Ademola Lookman was on target once again as Atalanta defeated AS Roma 2-1 in a crucial Serie A clash on Monday night, securing Champions League football for next season.
The Nigerian forward’s goal was his 15th in Serie A and his 20th in all competitions this season, underlining his impact for the Italian side. The victory keeps Atalanta in third place with 71 points, making it mathematically impossible for Juventus (64 pts), Lazio (64 pts) or Roma (63 pts) to catch up, with only two league matches remaining.
According to a 9am News report, Lookman and teammate Ibrahim Sulemana were the difference makers in a hard-fought match that ended Roma’s 19-game unbeaten run in Serie A.
Despite fitness concerns, Lookman started and made an immediate impact. In the 9th minute, he received the ball from Charles De Ketelaere, turned past Devyne Rensch, and fired a composed strike into the net from 13 yards out.
Atalanta created several opportunities to extend the lead. Ederson nutmegged a defender but fired over, while De Ketelaere and Mateo Retegui both missed close-range chances.
Those missed chances proved costly, as Roma equalized before halftime. A cross from Matías Soulé found Bryan Cristante, who flicked a header into the top corner to make it 1-1.
The second half brought drama when Manu Kone went down in the box under pressure from Mario Pasalic, prompting the referee to award a penalty. However, a VAR review showed Kone initiated contact, and the decision was overturned.
Atalanta’s pressure eventually paid off. Lookman, dangerous on the left wing, drove forward and rolled a pass to Lazar Samardzic, who set up Sulemana to fire a low drive through a crowded penalty box to restore the lead.
Roma threw everything forward in the dying minutes. A free-kick from Soulé narrowly missed the top corner, and in stoppage time, Roma goalkeeper Mile Svilar joined the attack for a last-minute corner, only to be denied by Atalanta’s resolute defending.
With this win, Atalanta have locked up a top-four finish, ensuring they will compete in the UEFA Champions League next season. It also leaves Roma, Lazio, and Juventus scrambling for the final European spots.
Lookman’s performance continues to enhance his reputation as one of the most effective African forwards in Europe this season. His contributions have been pivotal to Atalanta’s impressive campaign.
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