'Could prove decisive v Sporting CP' - Peseiro's bold pre-match prediction about Lookman comes true

Ex-Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro had predicted that his former pupil Ademola Lookman would be decisive for Atalanta in their Europa League round of 16, second leg clash against Sporting CP at Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo on Thursday night. 

Lookman played a key role as the Nerazzurri came from behind to beat Sporting CP 2-1, scoring in the opening minute of the second half to bring the game back to parity before Gianluca Scamacca's match-winning strike just before the hour mark.

The Nigeria national teamer, who scored in their last home game against Bologna in the Serie A before the visit of the Portuguese setup, pounced on the line after a cross from Aleksey Miranchuk into the box came all the way through to him.

Lookman was one on the standout players at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, scoring three goals to help the Super Eagles finish as runners-up in the competition held in Ivory Coast in January and February 2024.

Peseiro had a foot in both camps as he had two different spells as coach of Sporting CP but wanted Lookman to do well against his former club. 

Speaking hours before the Europa League game, the Portuguese football tactician told Italian satellite television channel Sportitalia :"Lookman is in a good moment and could prove decisive tonight (against Sporting CP).

"The two teams are strong, there is balance between them and both could win, despite Atalanta playing the second match at home."

Lookman has now registered 35 goal involvements (24 goals, 11 assists) in 62 matches since joining Atalanta from RB Leipzig in August 2022.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com