Ademola Lookman emerged as the hero on Wednesday, delivering a stunning hat-trick in Atalanta’s 3-0 triumph over Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League final, securing the Italian side’s maiden European trophy.
The encounter pitted Lookman against his compatriots Victor Boniface and Nathan Tella, who represented the German side. Leverkusen, undefeated until then and eyeing a historic treble after clinching the Bundesliga, were left reeling by Lookman’s two first-half goals and a third in the second half, thwarting any hopes of a late comeback for the German outfit, known for their resilience this season.
Lookman’s remarkable hat-trick not only sealed Atalanta’s victory but also etched his name in the annals of history as the first player to achieve such a feat in the Europa League.
His stellar performance adds to the illustrious list of Nigerian players who have excelled across Europe this season, clinching trophies with their respective clubs.
In Germany, Boniface and Tella celebrated their Bundesliga triumph with Leverkusen, ending Bayern Munich’s dominance without a single defeat—a historic achievement that garnered widespread acclaim. Despite enduring injury setbacks, Boniface was recognized with the Rookie of the Year award for his invaluable contributions.
Meanwhile, in England, Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi played pivotal roles in Leicester City’s Championship title win, securing their return to the Premier League.
Elsewhere, Super Eagles defender William Troost-Ekong overcame a lengthy injury layoff to secure the Greek Super League title with PAOK FC.
On the women’s front, Christy Ucheibe of the Super Falcons clinched an impressive quadruple with Benfica in Portugal, sweeping the Liga BPI, Taca de Portugal Feminina, Taca de Liga Feminina, and Super Taca de Portugal Feminina titles.
In Serbia, Peter Olayinka was instrumental in Red Star Belgrade’s double triumph, sealing victories in the SuperLiga and Belgian Cup.