Ademola Lookman is further cementing his status as one of football’s rising stars, having earned the UEFA Champions League Man of the Match award following Atalanta’s thrilling 2-3 loss to Real Madrid at the Gewiss Stadium.
The Nigerian winger, who scored a stunning goal on Tuesday night, was a standout performer despite the defeat to the reigning champions, continuing to display the exceptional form that has garnered global attention in recent years.
In the post-match interview, CBS Sports Golazo analyst and former England international Micah Richards asked Lookman about the factors behind his remarkable form.
“Just timing, really,” Lookman said. “Over these past two and a half years, I’ve been able to have consistency in playing. That consistency has come into my game, allowing me to improve and show my qualities.”
Lookman also acknowledged the role of circumstances in his development. “It comes with circumstances as well, so I’ll take it as it comes and continue to improve.”
In the contest against Real Madrid, Lookman’s goal—following a slick interplay with Charles De Ketelaere—highlighted his creativity and sharp instincts.
Despite Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham securing the victory for Madrid, Lookman’s performance stole the spotlight, reinforcing why he remains one of football’s most exciting talents.
Lookman’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric.
Recently nominated for the CAF African Player of the Year award, he is among the continent’s elite footballers.
This follows his impressive ranking in the Ballon d’Or standings, where he placed 14th, making him one of Africa’s highest-ranked players in the prestigious awards.
Adding to his accolades, Lookman played a pivotal role in Atalanta’s historic Europa League triumph last season, where his decisive performances and hatrick helped the Italian side lift the trophy for the first time in their history beating Bayer Leverkusen 3-0.
On the international stage, he was instrumental in Nigeria’s journey to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where the Super Eagles finished as runners-up, narrowly missing out on the coveted title to host nation Côte d’Ivoire.
With a CAF nomination, a strong Ballon d’Or showing, a Europa League title, and AFCON final experience under his belt, Lookman continues to write a story of resilience and brilliance, proving himself on every stage he graces, prompting the club president’s not for sale decision to wade off interests to sign the player away from the club in January.
