Ademola Lookman Wins Man Of Match Award with Brace in Atalanta's 5-0 Win, Days After Coach Gasperini Criticizes Him

Ademola Lookman delivered a standout performance for Atalanta, scoring twice in a commanding 5-0 victory over Empoli on Sunday, February 23, 2025. This result not only bolstered Atalanta's Serie A title aspirations but also showcased Lookman's resilience following recent criticism from his coach, Gian Piero Gasperini.

The match commenced with an own goal by Empoli's Emmanuel Gyasi, setting the tone for Atalanta's dominance. Mateo Retegui extended the lead before halftime, and Lookman added his first goal shortly after the break. He completed his brace with a second goal, and Davide Zappacosta rounded off the scoring in the 74th minute. This comprehensive victory narrowed the gap to league leaders, leaving Atalanta just three points behind Inter Milan and two behind Napoli. 

This performance is particularly significant given the recent tensions between Lookman and Coach Gasperini. Following Atalanta's 3-1 defeat to Club Brugge in the Champions League, Gasperini publicly criticized Lookman, labeling him "one of the worst penalty takers" after a missed penalty in that match. Lookman responded on social media, expressing that being singled out in such a manner "not only hurts but feels deeply disrespectful."