Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman was on the receiving end of a second defeat within five days as his Atalanta side were stunned by a comeback win from their hosts Cagliari. This loss put a dent in Atalanta's European hopes.
Lookman had put in a cross early on for Ederson, his long-range attempt went narrowly over the bar. The Nigerian eventually made the stat sheet when he played a decisive role in his team's opener in the 13th minute with a left-cross that found its way into the path of Gianluca Scamacc, who finished off the move brilliantly to give Gian Piero Gasperini's men the lead.
The European-chasing visitors were looking comfortable as Lookman fired another shot wide from Marten de Roon's pass after a good combination play.
Strugglers Cagliari grew into the game and got a deserved equalizer late into the first half. After seeing a penalty shout ruled out, the Rossoblu restored parity thanks to Tommaso Augello.
After the break, it was the home side who were playing with more flare and better chances created. They eventually got their decisive second goal in the 88th minute when Nikola Viola's precise header from a cross flew past the Atalanta goalkeeper, sealing a famous victory for the Islanders who have now extended their unbeaten home run to four games.
Photo by Icon sport Can Lookman's numbers propel his team to European football next season? Lookman who has started 17 games and made 7 substitute appearances in the league this season played the entire game but couldn't help prevent a loss. He was also on the losing side when he featured for 78 minutes last week in their Coppa Italia semi-final first-leg loss to Fiorentina.
The 26-year-old has now registered his 4th assist in 24 appearances in the league. He has also found the back of the net eight times. Across all competitions this season, the Nigerian has scored nine times in 32 appearances.
Sunday's result has kept Lookman and his teammates in sixth position after suffering their 10th league defeat this season while Cagliari have moved up to 13th on the table and are now four points clear of Serie A bottom three as they continue their quest to avoid the drop.