Atalanta delivered a resounding 5-0 victory over Empoli on Sunday, with Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman playing a starring role by scoring twice in a dominant performance.
The emphatic response comes just days after manager Gian Piero Gasperini publicly criticized the team, setting the stage for a commanding display at the Gewiss Stadium.
Lookman, who was benched in the midweek fixture following a penalty dispute, returned to the starting lineup and immediately made an impact. His inspired performance helped Atalanta close the gap on second-placed Napoli to just two points, keeping their Serie A title ambitions alive.
Zappacosta Sets the Tone
Atalanta wasted little time asserting their authority, opening the scoring through Davide Zappacosta in the 12th minute.
The wing-back’s attempted cross took a wicked deflection, deceiving Empoli goalkeeper Elia Caprile and nestling into the net. The early breakthrough set the tone for a dominant first half.
Lookman soon turned provider, setting up Mateo Retegui for Atalanta’s second goal in the 27th minute. The Nigerian forward displayed impressive vision, threading a perfectly weighted pass into Retegui’s path, allowing the Argentine striker to slot home confidently.
Lookman’s Brilliance
With Atalanta in full control, Lookman took center stage, showcasing his individual brilliance to extend the lead just before halftime.
Picking up the ball on the edge of the box, the former Leicester City forward weaved past two defenders before firing a clinical strike past Caprile, marking his first goal of the night.
The 26-year-old continued his fine form after the break, adding his second in the 57th minute. Latching onto a well-placed pass, Lookman maintained his composure to send a precise finish into the bottom corner, further dismantling Empoli’s fragile defense.
Zappacosta completed the rout in the 81st minute, capping off a dominant display with a well-taken goal. His strike ensured Atalanta recorded one of their biggest wins of the season, reaffirming their credentials in the title race.
Tensions Linger Despite Victory
While the emphatic victory underlined Atalanta’s attacking prowess, tensions appeared to simmer beneath the surface. Lookman, despite his outstanding contribution, noticeably avoided shaking hands with Gasperini after being substituted in the second half.
The gesture hinted at potential friction between the player and the manager following last week’s controversy over penalty responsibilities.
Gasperini, who had previously criticized the squad’s mentality, acknowledged Lookman’s performance but downplayed any lingering issues.
“It was important for him to respond on the pitch, and he did that. I’m pleased with the team’s reaction,” the Atalanta boss said post-match.
Title Race Heats Up
The victory keeps Atalanta firmly in the hunt for a top-two finish, closing the gap on Napoli to just two points. With their attacking unit firing on all cylinders and Lookman rediscovering his best form, Gasperini’s men have sent a clear message to their Serie A rivals.
Atalanta will now look to build on this momentum as they prepare for a crucial run of fixtures that could define their season.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
