Ademola Lookman impressed for Atalanta in a 0–0 draw against Lazio, earning praise from coach Ivan Juric on his 28th birthday for a “very high level” display

Ademola Lookman Atalanta Lazio—Nigerian international Ademola Lookman earned glowing praise from Atalanta head coach Ivan Juric following his lively performance in the goalless Serie A draw against Lazio on Sunday.

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Lookman, who turned 28 on Monday, marked his return to the starting lineup with an inspired second-half display at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo, having been on the fringes earlier in the season due to a near move to Inter Milan.

“Today we put in a very high-level performance; in the second half, Lookman lit up completely,” Juric said in his post-match comments, as reported by FcInter1908.

The Atalanta boss, overseeing his first season at the helm, was particularly impressed by Lookman’s all-round contribution, praising both his attacking threat and work rate.

“I also liked how he covered the flank in the final minutes, performing impeccable defensive work,” he added.

Despite coming close to scoring — including a powerful header miraculously saved by Lazio’s goalkeeper — Lookman’s influence was undeniable.

“He was unlucky with the header, but his performance remains at a very high level,” Juric continued. “He is improving, and I expect him to continue like this.”

The draw sees Atalanta maintain their unbeaten start to the Serie A campaign, although they have now drawn five of their seven matches — leaving room for improvement in front of goal.

“We are just missing the end product,” Juric admitted. “The team has ideas, good football, but we need more goals.”

On Monday, Atalanta paid tribute to the Nigerian winger with a celebratory message on their official website.

“The Nigerian striker turns 28 today… Ademola has made 122 appearances, tallying 25 assists and 52 goals — including his unforgettable hat-trick in Dublin that sealed our historic 2023/24 UEFA Europa League triumph.”

Lookman’s hat-trick in the Europa League final remains one of the standout moments in the club’s modern history and earned him the 2024 African Footballer of the Year award.

Atalanta now shift focus to their UEFA Champions League clash against Slavia Prague on Wednesday, with Lookman expected to play a key role in the fixture.

Also read: Flamingos U-17 World Cup loss blamed on errors – Olowookere

Having regained form and the manager’s trust, Ademola Lookman Atalanta Lazio performance could mark a turning point in his season — and another step in his journey as one of Nigeria’s top football exports.