Lookman brace sees Atalanta hurt Napoli title tilt

November 3, 2024 ndowd

Forward Ademola Lookman scored twice in the first half to inspire Atalanta to an emphatic 3-0 win at Serie A leaders Napoli on Sunday as the visitors moved second in the standings.

Lookman opened the scoring after 10 minutes, volleying home from close range after a headed cross from Charles De Ketelaere.

The Nigerian doubled the lead just after the half-hour mark with a long-range strike from another De Ketelaere pass, before substitute Mateo Retegui added the third in stoppage time to end Napoli’s 100% home league record this season.

Europa League champions Atalanta, provisionally second on 22 points, have cut the gap to their opponents at the top to three points. They are one point above third-placed Inter Milan, with a game in hand, and Juventus in fourth.

Napoli, who clinched a 2-0 win at AC Milan on Tuesday, were unbeaten in their last 10 games across all competitions, winning their previous five Serie A fixtures.

Ademola Lookman starred as Atalanta ended Napoli’s unbeaten run.

“I think the team played well,” Napoli manager Antonio Conte said after the defeat. “There were obviously areas, particularly around the goals we conceded, where we could have done better — but I have nothing to criticise in terms of the will and commitment shown by my team.

“We have to take these results as lessons without being ashamed of what happened.”

Striker Romelu Lukaku, who opened the scoring at Milan, had another chance for an early goal but Atalanta keeper Marco Carnesecchi saved his effort.

Scott McTominay went close to equalising for the hosts one minute after Lookman put Atalanta in front, but the Scotland midfielder struck the post.

Lookman increased Atalanta’s lead in the 31st minute, receiving a pass from De Ketelaere and firing home from distance.

He is now the Serie A player directly involved in the most goals in 2024 in all competitions with 16 goals and 11 assists.

Atalanta remained dangerous after the break, with Davide Zappacosta shooting just wide and defender Sead Kolasinac having his header from point-blank range disallowed for offside.

Lookman went close to finding the net again 15 minutes from time before Retegui wrapped up the points with a first-time shot from around the penalty spot.

Atalanta host eighth-placed Udinese on Nov. 10 after they travel to VfB Stuttgart in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Napoli next visit champions Inter Milan.

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