Atalanta BC won its first Europa League trophy with a sensational performance against Bayer Leverkusen, led by a hat-trick by Nigerian attacker Ademola Lookman.
This victory broke Leverkusen’s unbeaten streak while also marking Atalanta’s first goal and title in a European final.
Lookman’s goals came at critical points in the game, scoring in the 12th, 26th, and 75th minutes.
His outstanding performance was critical in leading Atalanta to this historic victory over a Leverkusen club that had recently won the Bundesliga title and was considered a heavy favourite entering the game.
This victory culminates a tremendous season for Atalanta under coach Gian Piero Gasperini, who lauded his team’s resilience and preparation for the final.
Despite their impressive unbeaten run and recent domestic victory, Leverkusen were unable to complete the treble, with this defeat a huge setback only days before their German Cup final.