Ademola Lookman has expressed his excitement and pride after helping Atalanta secure qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League with a hard-fought 2-1 victory against AS Roma. The Nigerian international, who found the net in Monday night’s decisive clash, described the moment as “deserved” and a testament to the team’s season-long efforts.
The win, played out at the Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo, confirmed Atalanta’s place among Europe’s elite next season and underlined their resurgence under manager Gian Piero Gasperini. With only two games left in the Serie A calendar, Atalanta now sit in third position, comfortably within the Champions League places.
Lookman’s Breakthrough Moment
Lookman got his side off to a flying start, converting a clinical opportunity inside the first ten minutes of the game. The goal marked his 20th strike across all competitions this season and set the tone for a tense but controlled performance by the home side.
“It’s a great feeling,” Lookman said in a post-match interview. “We knew how important this match was to achieve our Champions League goal. Everyone in the team stepped up, and we showed that we deserve to be at the top.”
His comments came shortly after full-time as fans celebrated Atalanta’s qualification, which had eluded them in the previous season. The win also brought Roma’s 19-match unbeaten streak in Serie A to an end.
Crucial Contributions and Team Spirit
Following Lookman’s opener, Roma equalised through Bryan Cristante, who slotted home a low shot in the 32nd minute. But Atalanta regained the lead in the second half, thanks to a fine strike from substitute Ibrahim Sulemana, whose 76th-minute effort from the edge of the box proved to be the winning goal.
Lookman credited the team’s unity and tactical discipline for their successful season. “We have a strong group of players, and we fight for each other every week,” he said. “It’s not just about one game — it’s the entire journey that got us here.”
The 26-year-old forward, who joined Atalanta from RB Leipzig in 2022, has been one of the standout performers in Serie A this season. His ability to create chances, score goals, and press high up the pitch has made him a valuable asset in Gasperini’s high-octane system.
Gasperini’s Vision Rewarded
Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini praised the entire squad for their consistency and maturity throughout the campaign. Speaking after the match, he said: “This is a group of players who have shown great determination and growth. We faced some difficult moments, but the team never gave up. To return to the Champions League is a huge reward.”
Gasperini has now guided Atalanta to Champions League qualification in four of the past six seasons — an impressive feat for a club that was once considered a mid-table side. He also emphasized the importance of finishing the campaign on a strong note with matches against Genoa and Torino still to play.
“We’ll enjoy this moment but remain focused. There’s still work to do, and we want to finish with pride,” the Italian tactician said.
Lookman’s Remarkable Season
Ademola Lookman’s impact this season cannot be overstated. The Nigeria international has contributed 15 Serie A goals and five assists, making him one of the most productive attackers in Italy’s top flight. He also helped Atalanta advance to the Coppa Italia final and reach the latter stages of the UEFA Europa League.
For Lookman, who previously played in England’s Premier League and Germany’s Bundesliga, this season has been a breakthrough in terms of consistency and confidence.
“I try to stay available for the team, no matter the situation. That’s important to me — to be ready and give my best in every game,” he said. “I’m enjoying my football, and it feels good to be making a difference.”
His performances have not gone unnoticed, with several clubs reportedly monitoring his progress, but Lookman has remained focused on helping Atalanta finish strong.
A New Chapter in Europe
Atalanta’s return to the Champions League is a significant achievement, not only for the club but for Italian football. Their presence in the competition adds another competitive and dynamic team to the mix.
For Lookman and his teammates, the prospect of competing against Europe’s best clubs next season brings excitement and ambition.
“We know the level of the Champions League, and we’re looking forward to the challenge,” Lookman said. “It’s where every top player wants to be, and we’ll prepare ourselves well.”
Looking Ahead
Atalanta still have the Coppa Italia final to play, as well as two remaining league fixtures that could help them solidify their top-three finish. The club’s remarkable campaign is a blend of strong tactical identity, squad depth, and individual brilliance — and Ademola Lookman has been at the heart of it all.
With his form peaking at just the right time, the Nigerian star is expected to play a crucial role not only in the remainder of the domestic season but also for the Super Eagles in their upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
As the curtain begins to close on the 2024–25 Serie A season, Lookman and Atalanta can take pride in what they’ve accomplished — a return to the Champions League stage, and the promise of bigger moments to come.
