Atalanta’s Europa League hero, Ademola Lookman, has credited his experience playing for the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, as a pivotal factor in the improvements and successes he has experienced in his career. Lookman shared his journey and the profound impact representing Nigeria has had on his life in an exclusive interview with Soccernet.ng.
This season, Lookman has been a standout performer for Atalanta, but his contributions reached new heights during the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Entering the match, Bayer Leverkusen had maintained an impressive unbeaten streak of 51 games. However, Atalanta, spearheaded by Lookman, ended that run with a stunning performance.
The 26-year-old forward was the star of the show, scoring two goals in the first half and completing his hat-trick in the second half. This remarkable feat not only secured Atalanta’s first European trophy in 60 years but also etched Lookman’s name in the history books as the first player to score a hat-trick in a Europa League final.
Lookman’s journey with the Nigerian national team began in 2022 when he made his competitive debut in a World Cup qualifier against Ghana. Reflecting on his experiences, Lookman emphasized the significant role the support from Nigerian fans has played in his development both on and off the pitch.
“It’s incredible,” Lookman expressed to journalist Oma Akatugba. “The support and the love I get back home from our people is unbelievable. It gives me the motivation to inspire myself and to evolve in different areas—not just in my game, but as a person as well.”
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He continued, “Playing for Nigeria has taken me to a new level. Competing in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) this January was a transformative experience. Although we lost in the final, the tournament rejuvenated the Super Eagles, and the support from back home was overwhelming.”
Lookman’s commitment to Nigeria and his appreciation for the fans’ support has clearly influenced his professional journey, driving him to continually improve and strive for excellence. This emotional and motivational backing has propelled him to new heights, both personally and professionally.
Looking ahead, Lookman aims to carry his outstanding form into Nigeria’s upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Benin and South Africa in late June. His performance in the 2023 AFCON may have gone under the radar, but Nigerian fans and coaches alike are hopeful that he will bring his remarkable club form to the national stage.
Former Leicester City player Lookman is now seen as a key asset for the Super Eagles, and coach Finidi George is optimistic about what Lookman can deliver in the crucial qualifiers. The Nigerian team is counting on his talent and the inspiration he draws from representing his country to help secure victories and pave the way to the World Cup.
Ademola Lookman’s journey illustrates the profound impact that national pride and fan support can have on an athlete’s career. As he continues to shine for both club and country, Lookman remains a testament to the transformative power of playing for one’s homel
