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Ademola Lookman has written himself into the UEFA Champions League record books despite Atalanta crashing out of the competition on Tuesday night, Footynaija.com reports.
Lookman has become the first Nigerian player to score in four consecutive UEFA Champions League appearances – a historic achievement in the competition, says UEFA.
Lookman’s record-breaking goal came in Atalanta’s 3-1 defeat to Club Brugge on Tuesday night, a result that saw the Italian side crash out of the tournament.
Returning from a knee injury, the Nigerian forward made an instant impact, finding the net to reignite Atalanta’s hopes after a 2-1 first-leg deficit.
His impressive scoring streak includes goals against VfB Stuttgart, Real Madrid, Sturm Graz, and now Club Brugge.
However, Lookman’s night took a painful twist when he missed a crucial second-half penalty.
With Atalanta desperately seeking an equalizer, the forward took responsibility ahead of teammates Mateo Retegui and Charles De Ketelaere. But former Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet produced a decisive save, ending Atalanta’s hopes of a comeback.
It is the first time the reigning Africa Footballer of the Year will miss a penalty for Atalanta.
For Atalanta, their Champions League exit is a blow, especially after last season’s Europa League triumph, the first in the club’s history.
