~ First-ever African player to score two or more goals in a Europa Cup final
~ First-ever Atlanta goal in Europa League final
~ First-ever hat-trick in Europa League final
Ademola Lookman emerged as the star of the show on a memorable Wednesday night, as his heroic hat-trick propelled Atalanta to Europa League glory over Bayer Leverkusen. The Nigerian forward’s stunning performance not only secured the Italian club’s first trophy in over six decades but also etched his name in the record books with three remarkable achievements on the night.
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Lookman’s exceptional display in the Europa League final not only captivated the audience but also demonstrated his immense talent and composure on the grand stage. The 24-year-old’s hat-trick turned the tide in Atalanta’s favor, as they clinched a historic victory that will be remembered for years to come.
First-ever African player to score two or more goals in a European Cup final
The first record that Lookman shattered was the fastest hat-trick in Europa League final history, achieving the feat in a remarkable seven-minute span. His clinical finishing and ability to seize crucial moments showcased his sharpness in front of goal and his ability to deliver under pressure.
Africa has had great strikers the likes of George Weah, Samuel Eto’o, Didier Drogba, Nwankwo Kanu, Mohamed Salah or Sadio Mane but none of them managed to achieve what Ademola Lookman did against Bayer Leverkusen.
The Super Eagle became the first-ever African player to score two or more goals in an European Cup final with his hat-trick against Xabi Alonso‘s side.
First-ever hat-trick in Europa League final
This is surely the craziest record Ademola Lookman set on Wednesday. The 26-year old is just the first player to have scored a hat-trick in a Europa League final. Knowing that the tournament is being played since 1971, what the 2023 AFCON finalist did needs to be talked about.
Moreover, Lookman’s hat-trick also made him the first Nigerian player to achieve such a milestone in a European club competition final. His achievement symbolizes a breakthrough for Nigerian football on the continental stage and highlights Lookman’s status as a rising star with immense potential.
First-ever Atalanta goal in Europa League final
The only European Cup Atalanta Bergamo had before Wednesday’s final was the UEFA Cup won in 1964. Then Ademola Lookman stepped up on a high-stakes game to score them their first goal in Europa League final, the second one and the third one as well. He is history maker.
Nigeria’s Ademola Shines Bright as Atalanta Claim Europa League Glory
In addition to his individual accolades, Lookman’s hat-trick propelled Atalanta to their first Europa League title after a 61-year wait. His contributions not only solidified his place in Atalanta’s history books but also endeared him to fans who will forever cherish his heroics on that magical night in Dublin.
As Ademola Lookman basks in the glory of his heroic hat-trick and Atalanta’s triumphant Europa League campaign, his name will undoubtedly be etched in football folklore as a shining example of talent, perseverance, and excellence on the grandest stage of European club competition.
