Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman had an uncharacteristically quiet performance as Atalanta were held to a goalless draw by Udinese in Saturday’s Serie A clash.

The result marked the first time Atalanta failed to score since their Champions League encounter against Celtic on October 26, 2024.

Lookman, who has been a key player for Atalanta this season, was effectively neutralized throughout the match, unable to make his usual impact.

The Nigerian international, featuring in his 16th league game of the season, has been in fine form with nine goals and five assists to his name. However, Udinese’s resolute defence kept him at bay, denying him the chance to edge closer to his milestone of 50 career goals in Europe’s top five leagues.

The game was not without its moments of drama, particularly for Udinese, who dominated much of the first half. They came close to breaking the deadlock just after the half-hour mark when Atalanta goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi made a stunning save, clawing Jaka Bijol’s header off the line.

Udinese’s Alexis Sánchez then struck the woodwork twice in quick succession, first with a header and then on the rebound. Sandi Lovric’s follow-up effort was also denied by Carnesecchi in a frantic sequence of chances.

Atalanta, who struggled to create clear opportunities, almost stole the win in the dying moments. Lazar Samardzic’s late effort forced a fine save from Razvan Sava, ensuring the match ended in a stalemate.

This was Atalanta’s second consecutive draw, leaving them in second place with 42 points, two behind league leaders Napoli, who still have a game in hand against Hellas Verona.

Udinese, despite missing Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye due to injury, remain ninth in the standings with 26 points.

For Lookman, the match was a rare off day in an otherwise impressive season.