Ademola Lookman missed a decisive penalty in Atalanta’s shocking 3-1 Champions League exit against Club Brugge. Manager Gian Piero Gasperini criticized the Nigerian forward, calling him "one of the worst penalty takers." The defeat ended Atalanta’s European campaign, shifting their focus to Serie A.
Atalanta’s Champions League journey came to a painful end as they suffered a 3-1 defeat to Club Brugge, with Ademola Lookman’s missed penalty becoming a key talking point. The Serie A side was already facing an uphill battle after trailing 3-0 at halftime, and despite Lookman’s quick impact upon his return from injury, the damage had already been done.
Introduced in the second half, Lookman wasted no time making his mark, finding the net just 42 seconds after stepping onto the pitch. His goal gave Atalanta a glimmer of hope, but their chances of a comeback faded when he failed to convert a crucial penalty. Club Brugge goalkeeper Simon Mignolet denied the Nigerian forward, effectively ending any hopes of a turnaround.
After the match, Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini didn’t hold back his criticism. He revealed that Lookman was not the designated penalty taker and slammed his decision to take the spot-kick, calling him “one of the worst penalty takers” he had ever seen. Gasperini further stated that he had preferred either Charles De Ketelaere or Mateo Retegui to take the penalty.
Lookman’s struggles from the penalty spot are not new. Fans may recall his infamous Panenka attempt for Fulham in 2020, which cost his team points against West Ham. This latest miss only reinforces doubts about his ability in high-pressure situations.
Despite the disappointment, Atalanta must quickly shift focus back to Serie A, where they sit third in the table. With their European campaign over, they now prepare for their upcoming clash against Empoli, hoping to regain momentum in the domestic competition.
