Ademola Lookman grabbed the headlines on Wednesday when he scored three goals in the UEFA Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.
It was a feat no one has achieved in the competition’s history since adopting the one-leg final format.
The phenomenal hat-trick saw the 26-year-old joining a select cast of European greats, like Ferenc Puskás, Alfredo Di Stéfano, Pierino Prati, and Jupp Heynckes, who have all written their names in history by scoring three or more goals in European Cup finals.
It was gratifying to see Lookman become the first African and Nigerian to create that history.
Best choice
Though born in England and even representing the Three Lions at the youth team level, many believe the ‘Nigerian Touch’ is crucial in Lookman’s rise to unprecedented stardom.
Lookman initially represented and excelled with England at the youth level. However, a crucial decision awaited him. He chose to represent Nigeria, the country of his heritage, over England. This bold move proved to be a turning point.
Seizing the opportunity to play abroad for Atalanta in Italy, Lookman blossomed. The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) was a coming-of-age moment. With the absence of key player Boniface, Lookman stepped up, scoring a crucial three goals and helping Nigeria reach the finals.
Building on his impact at the AFCON tournament where he made it to the Team of the Tournament, Lookman became a key player for Atalanta, racking up 15 goals and 8 assists in all competitions.
The highlight of his season was undoubtedly the Europa League final. On the biggest stage, Lookman delivered a sensational performance, scoring a hat-trick – the first ever in the Europa League final’s history.
Finding Inspiration in Nigeria
“The unwavering support and love I get from our people back home are unbelievable,” Lookman said as he glowingly admitted how playing for Nigeria has positively impacted his career. “It gives me the motivation to inspire myself in different areas, not just in my game but also as a person.”
“It has taken me to a new level. Competing at AFCON this January, unfortunately we lost in the final. But the whole tournament catapulted us to be the Eagles back again.
“I have always had confidence in my ability to create, score goals, help my teammates and assist them. In the past two years, I have been able to take my game to a new level. I have been able to show that on a more consistent basis. Maybe it could have come a bit earlier, but it has come now. I am pleased with the progress that I made. This is just the beginning. I hope for more nights like this.”
Looking Ahead
Lookman’s quiet demeanor belies a predator’s instinct on the pitch. He stings like a bee, maneuvering with the grace of a butterfly around the opponent’s goal area. His exploits in the Europa League final served as a timely reminder to Nigerian coach Finidi George of Lookman’s prowess.
With the World Cup qualifiers looming, Lookman’s place in the Super Eagles squad seems assured. His next target is to secure a World Cup berth for Nigeria. If he continues his current form, the hopes of a successful World Cup campaign for Nigeria will undoubtedly rest heavily on his shoulders.
