Super Eagles and Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman has becomes the first player to score a hat-trick in a European final since 1975 to secure Atalanta’s first-ever continental trophy, and he thanks Nigerians for the show of love and support.
Lookman scored a stunning hat-trick on Wednesday night as Atalanta ended Bayer Leverkusen’s 51-match, and claim their first trophy in 61 years.
Lookman said, “It’s incredible, and I have said this in earlier interviews: the unwavering support and love I get back home [Nigeria] is unbelievable; it gives me the motivation to try to inspire myself and try to evolve in different areas, not just in my game but as a person.
“It has taken me to a new level. Competing in AFCON this January, unfortunately, we lost in the final, but it catapulted us as Super Eagles, and the support back home is incredible.”
“Probably, I’ve always had the confidence to create and score goals and help my teammates.
“In the past few years, I’ve been able to take my game to a new level and show that on a more consistent basis.
“I’m pleased with the progress I’ve made, but this is just the beginning. I hope for more nights like this, No one ever imagined he could make this much progress.”
His manager, Gian Piero Gasperini, also commended Lookman saying, “He did something that will remain in the annals of history. He has carried himself as an incredible player and a match-winner.”
Vanguard
