Ademola Lookman delivered a stunning response to recent criticism from Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini, scoring twice in a commanding 5-0 victory over Empoli on Sunday.
After being at the center of a midweek penalty controversy, Lookman returned to the starting lineup and played a pivotal role in Atalanta’s dominant performance.
The match began with an early breakthrough as Davide Zappacosta’s deflected cross found the net. Lookman then provided an assist for Mateo Retegui, who doubled Atalanta’s lead.
The Nigerian forward soon took matters into his own hands, displaying remarkable skill to score just before halftime. He later added his second of the match with a calm, precise finish after the break.
Zappacosta capped off the rout with a late goal, sealing an emphatic win for Atalanta.
Despite the victory, tensions between Lookman and Gasperini remained evident. The forward noticeably avoided shaking hands with his coach after being substituted, fueling speculation about ongoing friction.
The win moves Atalanta within two points of second-placed Napoli, keeping them firmly in the Serie A title race.
