Lookman sends warning to Nigeria’s AFCON opponents, ends 2023 in style with Atalanta

Lookman made Nigeria’s squad for the AFCON, and he celebrated it with a goal for Atalanta in their final game of the year

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman scored the winning goal for Atalanta in their 1-0 win over Lecce on Saturday, Soccernet.ng reports.

Lookman was named in Nigeria’s 25-man squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations on Friday, following his great start to the season.

Nonetheless, he still had the opportunity to play against Lecce in Atalanta’s final game of the year at the Gewiss Stadium. Coach Gian Piero Gasperini added him to the attack alongside Gianluca Scamacca.

Atalanta were the better team in the first half, bossing possession and creating chances, but they lacked the cutting edge.

But in the second half, La Dea played better, and they were eventually rewarded with their goal in the 58th minute courtesy of Lookman.

The Super Eagles star received the ball from Scamacca in front of the box, weaved past a few defenders, found some space at the edge of the D and struck a low shot that trickled into Lecce’s net to make it 1-0. Lookman had another good chance in the 66th minute, but Wladimiro Falcone saved his strike.

Lecce pushed hard for the equaliser, but Atalanta were just the better team and saw out the 1-0 win. Their victory ensures that they end 2023 with a victory.

Meanwhile, next on Lookman’s agenda is the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. The Super Eagles camp opens on January 1, and he would be looking to make an impact for the Super Eagles.