Ademola Lookman overcame a fitness scare to fire Atalanta into next season’s UEFA Champions League, scoring in Monday’s 2-1 win over Roma that sealed third place in Serie A.
Despite nursing an inflamed Achilles tendon that kept him out of training on Friday, Lookman started the match and opened the scoring in Bergamo.
His early strike was later cancelled out by Roma’s Bryan Cristante, before Ibrahim Sulemana netted the winner and etched his name into club history.
“It’s a great feeling,” Lookman told DAZN. “We knew the importance of this game. To qualify for the Champions League and put in that kind of performance, credit to everyone.”
The Nigerian international emphasized the team’s resilience, especially under pressure.
“It’s not easy to do what we did this season. I try to be available and give my best. The team showed we’re strong.”
Sulemana, who had only played 143 minutes in Serie A before the game, made his impact count with a well-taken goal just days before his 22nd birthday.
“I cannot say much, I am just so happy,” said Sulemana. “The coach asked me to press and support the attack, and I got the goal. We worked hard every day for this moment.”
With two league games left, manager Gian Piero Gasperini hinted at early celebrations, but Lookman remained focused. “Another game on Sunday. We’ll enjoy tonight, but we want to finish strong.”
