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Club Brugge goalkeeper explains surprise at Lookman taking penalty

Posted : 19 February 2025

Atalanta's UEFA Champions League journey came to an end on Tuesday night as they were defeated 3-1 by Raphael Onyedika's Club Brugge at the Gewiss Stadium. This loss meant Atalanta exited the competition with a 5-2 aggregate score following their first-leg defeat. 


In a historic moment for Belgian football, Club Brugge became the first Belgian side to win a knockout phase tie in the UEFA Champions League era. Their dominance in the match was evident as they established a commanding three-goal lead before halftime. Goals from Chemsdine Talbi and Ferran Jutglà gave the visitors a firm grip on the game. 


With the scoreline firmly against them, Atalanta's manager Gian Piero Gasperini decided to make a change at halftime. He introduced Ademola Lookman in place of Mario Pasalic, hoping to spark a reaction from his side in the second half. This tactical move quickly paid dividends.


Lookman, who had returned from a knee injury, made an immediate impact. Just moments after entering the game, he found the back of the net, scoring from a low cross delivered by Davide Zappacosta. His goal reignited hope for the home side, making the score 3-1, but Atalanta still faced an uphill battle.


In the 56th minute, Atalanta had a chance to pull closer when Cuadrado was fouled in the box, earning the team a penalty. However, Club Brugge’s goalkeeper Simon Mignolet produced a spectacular save. He dived to his left, denying Lookman's powerful penalty shot, which would have given Atalanta a lifeline.


After the match, Mignolet spoke about his surprise that Lookman was the one to take the penalty, as the forward had just returned from a long injury absence. Mignolet admitted that he didn’t expect Lookman to step up for the spot-kick and had actually consulted his teammate Wouter Biebauw before the penalty. 


Lookman had been in fine form during the Champions League campaign, directly contributing to seven goals (five goals and two assists) in his seven appearances. Despite the defeat, his performance was a reminder of his attacking prowess and potential, which will be crucial for both Atalanta and the Super Eagles as the season progresses.

 

 

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