Ademola Lookman scored a sensational hat-trick as Atalanta ended a 61-year trophy drought by defeating Bayer Leverkusen 3-0 in the Europa League final at a boisterous Aviva Stadium. The victory devastated Leverkusen’s dream of an unbeaten season.
Both sides brought vibrant support to Dublin for what was Atalanta’s first European final and only Leverkusen’s third. Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen had remained unbeaten in 51 games this season and were just two matches away from perfection. However, former Charlton Athletic winger Lookman had other plans.
Lookman opened the scoring by placing the ball in the top corner from a Davide Zappacosta cutback. His second goal was a moment of brilliance, as he nutmegged Granit Xhaka before bending a superb shot into the bottom corner from 20 yards. Lookman’s third goal was equally spectacular, featuring a step-over to beat Edmond Tapsoba before firing into the roof of the net.
Leverkusen, known for their dramatic comebacks, could not muster another one this time. Thanks to Gian Piero Gasperini’s tactical masterclass and a relentless pressing game, Atalanta now add a second trophy to their cabinet alongside the 1963 Coppa Italia.
This triumph also secures Atalanta a spot in next season’s Champions League, a place they had not yet guaranteed through Serie A.
