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Ademola Lookman delivered a dramatic last-minute winner for Atalanta, sealing a hard-fought 2-1 victory over AC Milan in a gripping Serie A clash on Friday night at the Gewiss Stadium.
The Nigerian forward led Atalanta’s attack alongside Charles De Ketelaere, while Samuel Chukwueze was benched for Milan despite his brace in their last outing.
AC Milan started brightly, with Christian Pulisic testing Marco Carnesecchi just 12 seconds in. Alvaro Morata thought he had given the Rossoneri an early lead in the sixth minute, but his effort was ruled out for offside.
Atalanta then struck first, with De Ketelaere heading home in the 12th minute. However, their advantage was short-lived as Alvaro Morata equalized for Milan just ten minutes later.
The first half ended level, despite Atalanta’s dominance in possession. The second half saw relentless pressure from La Dea, with Lookman leading the charge.
He forced a sharp save from Mike Maignan in the 79th minute and came close again in the 86th, but Maignan was equal to the task.
The breakthrough finally came in the 87th minute. Lookman rose highest to meet a cross, powering a header past Maignan to give Atalanta the lead and secure all three points.
He was substituted shortly after, having done enough to be the hero of the night.
Historic Win for Atalanta
The victory marked Atalanta’s ninth straight Serie A win, their best streak since 2020, according to Opta.
The result temporarily lifted them to the top of the league table with 34 points, two ahead of Napoli, who have a game in hand.
Lookman’s performance solidified his reputation as one of the league’s standout players this season.
The 27-year-old has now registered 10 goals and five assists in Serie A, proving instrumental in Atalanta’s title push.
Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini praised Lookman, hinting at the squad’s growing ambitions of winning the league if they continue to build on their momentum.”
What’s Next?
As the frontrunner for the CAF Player of the Year award, Lookman continues to show why he’s considered one of Africa’s elite talents. With his scintillating form, Atalanta’s title hopes and European ambitions look increasingly achievable.
