Will Lookman's African POTY dreams fade away amid potential third final defeat in 2024? 

Ademola Lookman's season has been a roller coaster ride of near misses and agonizing defeats.

The talented winger has faced heartbreak in two major finals already, and his luck may not change anytime soon.

With the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen looming, Lookman's Atalanta side faces an uphill battle against a team boasting a record-breaking 50-game unbeaten streak.

Just last night, Lookman's Coppa Italia dreams were shattered by a resilient Juventus side, who edged out Atalanta 1-0 in the final.

This defeat came on the heels of Nigeria's heartbreaking loss to Ivory Coast in the 2023 African Cup of Nations  final.

Despite scoring first, the Super Eagles succumbed to a 2-1 defeat, denying Lookman the chance to lift the coveted trophy.

Lookman's impressive performances at the AFCON, where he contributed three goals and an assist, earned him a spot in the tournament's best eleven.

His scintillating displays look poised to make him one of the contenders for the 2024 CAF awards, currently held by Napoli's Victor Osimhen. However, his recent string of unlucky defeats may dampen his chances.

The odds are stacked against Atalanta as they face a formidable Leverkusen side in the Europa League final on May 22.

Xabi Alonso's men are on a record-breaking unbeaten run, and it's hard to see Atalanta emerging victorious. If they do, it would be a monumental upset, and Lookman's chances of claiming CAF glory would receive a significant boost.

Despite the setbacks, Lookman's talent and determination remain unquestionable. His ability to perform on the biggest stage is evident, and his contributions to Atalanta and Nigeria have been invaluable.

If Lady Luck decides to smile upon him, Lookman might yet find himself in the running for the prestigious CAF awards.

For now, Lookman and Atalanta must focus on the daunting task ahead. Leverkusen's unbeaten streak is a formidable obstacle, but stranger things have happened in football.

If Lookman can draw upon his AFCON heroics and inspire Atalanta to an unlikely victory, his CAF award hopes may yet be rekindled.

Ejim Kaycee

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