Serie A: Lookman silences critics with brace as Atalanta thrash Empoli 5-0

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman delivered a sensational performance, scoring twice as Atalanta cruised to dominant 5-0 win over Empoli on Sunday.

The Nigerian winger, recently criticized by manager Gian Piero Gasperini for missing a penalty in Atalanta’s UEFA Champions League defeat to Club Brugge, responded in emphatic fashion.

Lookman opened his account in the 43rd minute, rounding the goalkeeper after a Mario Retegui assist to slot home Atalanta’s third goal.

He then doubled his tally in the second half, driving forward from the center circle before finding the bottom right corner with a precise left-footed finish.

With 17 goals and 7 assists in 29 matches this season, Lookman continues to prove his worth, becoming the first player in the last three Serie A seasons to score more than ten goals each campaign, according to Opta.

Atalanta had already taken control through an Emmanuel Gyasi own goal and a Retegui strike before Lookman’s brace. Davide Zappacosta sealed the win with a fifth goal, courtesy of Mario Pasalic’s assist.

Lookman’s red-hot form is a major boost for Nigeria ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March.