Nigerian star Ademola Lookman has called on his team, Atalanta, to show greater killer instinct. This follows the club’s 1-1 draw against AC Milan on Tuesday night. The reigning African Footballer of the Year was delighted to score his first Serie A goal of the season.
Lookman delivered a standout performance at the Stadio di Bergamo. His first-half equalizer secured a crucial point for the hosts.
Equalizer Highlights Fine Form
The match started quickly, with AC Milan taking an early lead in the fourth minute. Samuele Ricci scored for the visitors. Lookman then leveled the score after receiving an assist from Mario Pašalić. The Nigerian forward finished powerfully into the roof of the net.
Speaking after the match, Lookman expressed his happiness at breaking his scoring drought. However, he admitted the team needs to improve to reach its full potential.
- “It feels good to be back and to help the team,” the forward told reporters.
- “The most important thing is to keep improving because we need to grow as a group. What matters in the end is helping the team win matches.”
Mixed Start Amid Transfer Speculation
The 28-year-old has experienced a turbulent start to the current campaign. This follows a summer filled with transfer speculation linking him to Inter Milan and Bayern Munich.
After those transfer prospects failed to materialize, he struggled to regain his form early on. He made only a brief appearance against Torino and was absent for the subsequent fixture against Juventus.
However, Lookman has since established himself as a key starter. He has begun six consecutive matches under the new manager since returning to the lineup. He is now gradually rediscovering the sharpness that made him one of Atalanta’s most influential players last season.
Coach Praises Special Quality
The new manager, Ivan Jurić, praised Lookman’s energy and performance. Jurić described the Nigerian as a special player who is capable of inspiring the team.
“Lookman is a fantastic player,” Jurić said. He added that the forward “gives everything when he plays” and possesses “a special quality.”
The coach admitted his frustration despite controlling the match. He believes Atalanta deserved the victory. “There was only one team that should have won tonight,” he asserted.
“We created so many opportunities, but we need to become more clinical. I believe once that happens, everything will start to click.”
Atalanta remains undefeated in the league this season, recording two wins and seven draws. While their defense is strong, their frequent inability to turn dominance into victories has led fans to seek a more cutting edge in attack.
Lookman, who was vital to the team’s European qualification last season, will be crucial as the club pushes for a top-four finish.
The Nigerian forward will look to build on his renewed form when Atalanta faces Udinese, featuring goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, in their next league outing on Saturday.
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