Lookman hat-trick secures Europa League glory for Atalanta
Atalanta have won their first major trophy in 59 years after Ademola Lookman's hat-trick secured a 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Europa League final in Seville.
Lookman became the first player to score a hat-trick in a UEFA Europa League final as he fired Atalanta to their first major trophy since the Coppa Italia in 1963.
The 26-year-old forward put Atalanta ahead in the 23rd minute, sweeping home from close range after a low cross from Robin Gosens. He doubled their lead just before half-time, heading in from a corner to send Atalanta into the break with a comfortable advantage.
Lookman completed his hat-trick in the 59th minute, finishing off a counter-attack with a clinical strike into the bottom corner. It was a stunning performance from the former Everton and Leicester City forward, who has now scored 15 goals in all competitions for Atalanta this season.
Bayer Leverkusen never really recovered from Lookman's early strikes, and Atalanta were able to control the game for large periods. The German side had a few chances to get back into the game, but they were unable to find a way past Atalanta's resolute defense.
Atalanta's victory is a major achievement for the club, who have never won a major European trophy before. It is also a personal triumph for Lookman, who has struggled to fulfill his potential at other clubs in the past.
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