No Lookman, no party: Atalanta suffer shock defeat to Club Brugge without Super Eagles star

Atalanta suffered a setback in their Champions League campaign, losing 2-1 to Club Brugge in the first leg of their playoff tie without Nigerian star Ademola Lookman.

The Italian side will now have to overturn the deficit in the return leg in Bergamo next week to keep their Champions League dream alive.

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A late penalty, converted by Gustaf Nilsson, secured the victory for the home side in a thrilling encounter. Club Brugge took the lead through Jutgla, before Pasalić equalised for Atalanta.

Despite a strong showing in the second half, Atalanta conceded a late penalty, resulting in a 2-1 defeat,.

The absence of key players, including Lookman due to injury, limited Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini's options in attack.

With Lookman and Daniel Maldini ruled out, the La Dea relied on Charles De Ketelaere and Mateo Retegui in attack which failed to work this time.

Despite the defeat, Atalanta will be looking to capitalise on their scoring prowess at home in the return leg. They are aiming to secure a place in the last 16, where they could face either Aston Villa or Lille.

This is the first competitive fixture between Raphael Onyedika, who played from start to finish, Club Brugge and Atalanta.