Ademola Lookman shines as Atalanta dismantle Genoa 5-1 at Gewiss Stadium
Ademola Lookman played a pivotal role as Atalanta cruised to a commanding 5-1 victory over Genoa in their Serie A Round 7 clash at the Gewiss Stadium on 5th October 2024. The Nigerian forward was instrumental in Atalanta’s attacking dominance, helping his team extend their scoring record to 19 consecutive home games in Serie A, the longest in the club’s history.
It has been a challenging season for Atalanta, the reigning Europa League champions, who had won just three of their previous nine matches across all competitions. However, following their 3-0 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Champions League midweek, Gian Piero Gasperini’s side built on that momentum with a stellar performance against Genoa.
Atalanta opened the scoring in the 24th minute, with Lookman delivering a precise long pass to an unmarked Mateo Retegui, who calmly slotted the ball into the bottom right corner. Lookman continued to threaten Genoa’s defense, coming close to scoring on several occasions, including a near miss just past the half-hour mark when his shot was saved by Genoa’s goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini.
In the second half, Retegui doubled Atalanta’s lead in the 50th minute, finishing a rebound from close range. The Argentine forward then turned provider, assisting Ederson’s goal on the hour mark with a lovely pass that set up a fine finish. Retegui completed his hat trick in the 74th minute, converting from the penalty spot after being fouled inside the box.
Marten de Roon added a fifth goal for Atalanta with a powerful shot from the edge of the box in the 80th minute, sealing a comprehensive victory for the home side. Genoa found a late consolation through Jeff Ekhator, who scored in the 83rd minute to reduce the deficit to 5-1.
Atalanta’s dominant display has revitalized their Serie A campaign as they aim to climb the table and secure back-to-back victories for the first time this season. Lookman’s impressive performance will boost his confidence ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming 2025 AFCON qualifiers
