Ademola Lookman was on target for Atalanta in their game against Bologna on Sunday March 3. The Super Eagles forward scored in the 29th minute to give the hosts the lead.
This is the Nigerian's third game for Gian Piero Gasperini's side since his return from international duty with Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2024) in Ivory Coast.
Lookman was one of Nigeria's best performers in Ivory Coast, having scored three goals for the Super Eagles and was one of three Nigerian players named in CAF's Team of the Tournament.
La Dea are currently in sixth place on the Serie A table with 46 points after 27 games played.
Lookman scores first goal of 2024 in post-AFCON debut start
Lookman made a significant impact for Atalanta in his first start since returning from AFCON duty. Prior to his goal against Bologna, the 26-year-old had made some second-half appearances for Atalanta in their games against AC Milan and Inter Milan.
It is worth noting that the 26-year-old had recovered from injury just in time to play against Milan.
In 21 Serie A games, Lookman has been involved in 11 goals, scoring eight times and providing three assists to his teammates.
Zirkzee scores to cancel out Ademola Lookman's goal
Joshua Zirkzee, who recently earned his Dutch call-up, scored from the spot to equalise for Bologna.
Born to a Nigerian mother and a Dutch father, he has been making waves in Serie A with Bologna. The 22-year-old was torn between representing the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Oranje of the Netherlands but has ultimately opted to feature for the Netherlands.
Zirkzee has been superb this season.
In 27 games, he has scored nine goals and provided three assists as Bologna push for a UEFA Champions League qualification slot.
Interestingly, in spite of Ademola Lookman's early goal, Atalanta couldn't hold on for all three points, as they suffered a 2-1 loss to Bologna.
