Lookman Hat Trick Ends Bayern Leverkusen Unbeaten Record As Atalanta Are Crowned Champions Of Europa League

In a thrilling Europa League final showdown, Ademola Lookman’s remarkable hat-trick propelled Atalanta to a stunning 3-0 victory over the previously unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen, ending their historic 51-game unbeaten run. The final took place at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on May 22, 2024, marking Atalanta’s first major trophy in 117 years and breaking Leverkusen’s remarkable streak.

Lookman, who had struggled to establish himself in the English Premier League before moving to Italy, was the star of the show. His performance not only ended Leverkusen’s dream of an invincible treble but also wrote his name in history as the first player to score a hat-trick in a Uefa Cup or Europa League final since Jupp Heynckes did it for Borussia Mönchengladbach in 1975.

The first goal came from a smart poach, the second a sharp jink-and-curl, and the third an explosive rocket that shattered Leverkusen’s uniquely ardent belief. Lookman’s heroics not only secured Atalanta’s first silverware since 1963 but also booked them a place in next season’s Champions League.

This victory for Atalanta, a club dwarfed by the many powerhouses in the north of Italy, was a triumph of determination and resilience against the odds. It was a fitting end to a season that saw Bayer Leverkusen crowned Bundesliga champions for the first time in their 119-year history, dropping just 12 points in the process.

As the final whistle blew, it was not just a win for Atalanta but a testament to the spirit of underdog stories in football. The fans in Bergamo, who had waited 61 years for a major trophy, were jubilant as their team ended Leverkusen’s unbeaten run and etched their names in Europa League history.