The Super Eagles star is in incredible form this season and could be the difference between Atalanta and Real Madrid
With Real Madrid fighting to save their European campaign against Atalanta, Ademola Lookman’s outstanding form for Atalanta this season could be the difference between the Italian side and Los Blancos.
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The Nigerian forward’s prolific record in both Serie A and Europe starkly contrasts with Kylian Mbappe’s recent struggles and could lead Atalanta to a famous win over the most successful side in the competition’s history.
Lookman’s stellar season puts Atalanta in the driver’s seat
The Nigerian forward has been in scintillating form, scoring 10 goals and providing five assists in 17 appearances for Atalanta this season.
His contributions in the Champions League have been pivotal, with two goals and an assist helping La Dea remain unbeaten after matches against Arsenal, Shakhtar Donetsk, Celtic, RB Salzburg, and Young Boys.
Lookman’s domestic exploits have also been crucial for Atalanta’s ascent to the top of Serie A, including his recent match-winning performance against AC Milan, adding to his claim as one of the most in-form attackers in Europe.
In contrast, Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé has struggled to replicate his usual brilliance, scoring only once and providing a single assist in five Champions League matches.
With the Frenchman struggling for form, Real Madrid are languishing in 24th place in the Champions League and are desperate for a win.
Real Madrid’s injury woes give Atalanta added hope
Real Madrid’s injury-plagued squad further tilts the scales in Atalanta’s favour. With key players like Rodrygo, Eder Militao, and Dani Carvajal sidelined, Carlo Ancelotti’s options are severely limited.
The defensive crisis leaves Toni Rüdiger as the sole senior centre-back, forcing makeshift solutions that could be exploited by Atalanta’s potent attack.
Adding to Madrid’s woes is their vulnerability to counterattacks, a weakness Lookman and his teammates are well-equipped to exploit.
Atalanta’s impressive defensive record in the Champions League—they have yet to concede a goal—also provides a solid foundation for their dynamic attacking play.
While Atalanta have momentum and a home advantage, Real Madrid’s storied Champions League pedigree ensures they cannot be written off. However, with Lookman in better form than Mbappe, the hosts look poised to claim a statement win in Bergamo.