Ademola Lookman: The kid from Wandsworth who defied all odds to make European history
Published: May 23, 2024In a story that will be etched in the annals of football history, Ademola Lookman, who was born in Wandsworth, London, has achieved the unthinkable.
With his historic hat-trick in the Europa League final, Lookman has become the first Nigerian and only the sixth player in the world to score a treble in a European final.
Lookman's journey to this momentous occasion was far from easy. From humble beginnings in non-league football to his rise through the ranks of English football,
Lookman's determination and talent have been the driving force behind his success. His move to Atalanta in the summer of 2022 proved to be a masterstroke, as he played a pivotal role in the team's fairytale run to the Europa League final.
The stage was set for a thrilling encounter in Dublin, as Atalanta faced off against the unbeaten German champions, Bayer Leverkusen.
Lookman's Nigerian compatriots, Victor Boniface and Nathan Tella, were part of the Leverkusen squad, but even their valiant efforts couldn't stop the Atalanta forward's explosive display.
Lookman's first goal came in the 12th minute, a beautifully crafted strike that left the Leverkusen goalkeeper with no chance.
His second goal, just 14 minutes later, was a testament to his lightning-quick speed and skill. And when he completed his hat-trick in the 75th minute, the stadium erupted in a frenzy of noise and color.
As Lookman celebrated with his teammates, the magnitude of his achievement was clear. He had not only become the first Nigerian to score and win a Europa League final but also etched his name in the history books as one of the greatest players in the competition's history.
In the aftermath of the game, Lookman was overcome with emotion, describing the moment as the "best night of my life."
His journey from Wandsworth to Europa League winner is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and talent.
As he lifted the trophy aloft, surrounded by his teammates and adoring fans, Lookman knew that this moment would stay with him forever.
Ejim Kaycee
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
- Golden Eaglets-eligible central defender agrees two new deals with Chelsea
- Man Utd joined by AC Milan, Borussia Dortmund in pursuit of Flying Eagles-eligible striker
- TEMU Affiliate Program 2024: Earn up to £100,000 a month
- Finidi v Osimhen face-off: The Super Eagles player that convinced Napoli striker to stop Instagram Live rant
- 'I will not allow disrespect from anybody' - Osimhen fires back at Finidi in Instagram Live rant
- Atletico Madrid reject offer in excess of N66b for Nigerian striker
- Promising winger Tyrique George signs new three-year deal with Chelsea
- NFF sources: Forty-seven days after appointment as Super Eagles coach, Finidi throws in the towel
- Arsenal striker's Nigerian family pushing for Bundesliga move amid Bayern, Borussia Dortmund links
- Transfer guru reckons Chelsea striker in pole position to replace Osimhen
- Football Betting
- African Players
- Australia/ Asia
- Belgian Championship
- Bundesliga
- Danish Football
- English Premier League
- Nigeria National Teams
- Nigeria Premier League
- Norwegian Football
- Polish Football
- Russian Championship
- Serie A
- Spanish Liga
- Swedish Championship
- Transfer
- Turkish Championship
- Ukrainian Football
- Uncategorized
- Women's Football