Vindication! Ademola Lookman’s goal against Milan proves he's back for Atalanta, Nigeria
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Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman celebrates after scoring a goal for Atalanta against AC Milan in a Serie A match. (Photo Credit: Atalanta/X)

Vindication! Ademola Lookman’s goal against Milan proves he's back for Atalanta, Nigeria

Izuchukwu Akawor 08:56 - 29.10.2025

Ademola Lookman scores his first Serie A goal of the season in a Man of the Match performance, securing a critical 1-1 draw for Atalanta against AC Milan and igniting a passionate debate among Nigerian fans online.

Nigerian international Ademola Lookman finally broke his seven-match goal drought, netting a spectacular equaliser just before halftime in Atalanta's intense 1-1 draw against AC Milan at the Gewiss Stadium on Sunday. 

The crucial strike, his first of the 2025/2026 Serie A season, secured a valuable point for La Dea and immediately became the focal point of a massive social media reaction, particularly from his devoted Nigerian fanbase.

Lookman’s Stunner 

The fixture saw AC Milan draw first blood, with Samuele Ricci scoring four minutes in after a deflection that left the Atalanta defense scrambling. Despite the early setback, the home side, coached by Ivan Juric, pressed hard for an answer. 

The persistence paid off just before the break when Mario Pasalic played a sharp pass to Lookman, who unleashed a ferocious left-footed shot that flew past goalkeeper Mike Maignan at the near post.

AC Milan players celebrate Samuele Ricci's opener against Atalanta. (Photo Credit: Milan/X)
AC Milan players celebrate Samuele Ricci's opener against Atalanta. (Photo Credit: Milan/X)

The goal not only leveled the score but also provided a moment of relief for the Super Eagles forward, whose recent stretch without a goal had seen a surge in online chatter and criticism. 

Lookman’s Man of the Match display extended beyond the goal; his movement and tenacity constantly troubled the Milan backline.

Ademola Lookman celebrates his first goal of the season for Atalanta. (Photo Credit: Atalanta/X)
Ademola Lookman celebrates his first goal of the season for Atalanta. (Photo Credit: Atalanta/X)

Fan Reaction: From Relief to #FreeLookman

The reaction to the goal from Nigerian supporters was immediate and passionate, shifting the narrative from celebration to protection and concern.

"Person wey una been wan kill him career," one fan posted, referencing the earlier criticism. Another simply declared, “Lookman is back,” a sentiment echoed across various platforms.

However, the celebratory mood quickly turned into a protective stance. Following reports of potential transfer interest and the forward’s visibly focused, almost muted celebration, a strong contingent of fans voiced concerns about his happiness at Atalanta.

"He does not want to play for your club anymore. Let him go, Let my people free. #freelookman," one comment read, highlighting a belief that Lookman deserves better treatment or a move to a club with higher ambitions. 

Nigeria's Lookman was named man of the match against Milan. (Photo Credit: Serie A/X)
Nigeria's Lookman was named man of the match against Milan. (Photo Credit: Serie A/X)

"Bro doesn't look happy. Atalanta have been disrespectful to my boy," another fan added, capturing the feeling that the club must better value their star player.

Lookman's return to the scoresheet is an important psychological boost for both the player and Atalanta. His goal-scoring form was decisive last season, and his drought had coincided with a mixed run of results for La Dea. 

Ademola Lookman of Atalanta BC | Photo Credit: xEmanuelexPennacchiox

The 1-1 draw sees Milan extend their impressive nine-game unbeaten run, a tribute to manager Massimiliano Allegri’s tactical discipline. For Atalanta, however, the shared points feel like an opportunity missed to leapfrog a European rival.

This performance, particularly the stunning equaliser, will undoubtedly extinguish any immediate doubts about the spectacular Nigerian Lookman's form and will be crucial for his confidence heading into upcoming fixtures. 

Atalanta's Ivan Juric had been waiting on Lookman to rediscover his form. (Photo Credit: Atalanta/X)

It also amplifies the ongoing conversation surrounding his future. If his perceived discontent continues, the strong support from his fans, who are increasingly becoming a vocal digital constituency, could pressure the club or fuel transfer rumours ahead of the winter window.

Ademola Lookman's spectacular goal against AC Milan was more than just a point gained; it was a statement. The fan reaction confirms that the Nigerian star is back in form, but the conversation has now shifted to the vital question of his happiness and future.

Watch Lookman's stunning first goal of the season below