Ademola Lookman’s stunning hat-trick propelled Atalanta to their first silverware since 1963, ending Bayer Leverkusen’s unbeaten season in the Europa League final.
Lookman, the London-born Nigerian striker who began his career at Charlton, delivered two excellent first-half finishes and added a brilliant third goal 15 minutes from time, leading Atalanta to a commanding 3-0 victory in Dublin.
This triumph marked only the second trophy in Atalanta’s 116-year history, coming over six decades after their Coppa Italia win.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s side had lost to Juventus in the Coppa Italia final just seven days earlier, but they bounced back to derail Leverkusen’s momentum.
Lookman, formerly of Everton, Fulham, and Leicester, provided the decisive edge in a polished team performance.
Leverkusen, under Xabi Alonso, had been on the verge of an invincible season after securing their first Bundesliga title and remaining unbeaten for 51 games.
However, Leverkusen was unprepared for Atalanta’s high press, which forced early mistakes and set the tone for the match.
Granit Xhaka lost possession, leading to Matteo Ruggeri setting up a headed chance for Gianluca Scamacca.
Despite this clear warning, Leverkusen failed to respond, and Atalanta took the lead after 12 minutes.
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