Atalanta BC put on a clinic at the Stadio Carlo Castellani, crushing Empoli 5-0 in a sensational performance that saw Ademola Lookman steal the show.
From the first whistle, Atalanta showed their intent, bombarding Empoli’s defense with relentless pressure. David Zappacosta and Berat Djimsiti tested Marco Silvestri early on, while Empoli’s Christian Kouamé had a rare chance, but the visitors stood firm.
The breakthrough came in the 29th minute when Zappacosta’s cross took a wicked deflection off Emmanuel Gyasi, wrongfooting Silvestri and rolling into the net. Moments later, Mateo Retegui capitalized on a flicked-on corner to double Atalanta’s lead.
Just before halftime, Lookman silenced his critics in style. After missing a crucial penalty in midweek, he redeemed himself by rounding Silvestri and slotting home Atalanta’s third, putting the game beyond doubt.
The second half saw Atalanta continue their dominance. Lookman bagged his brace with a stunning drive into the bottom corner after a slick pass from Marten de Roon. Zappacosta then put the final nail in Empoli’s coffin, firing a low shot past Silvestri to make it five.
Empoli had a late chance through 16-year-old debutant Thomas Campaniello, but his shot sailed over, summing up their frustrating night.
With two goals and an electric performance, Ademola Lookman was named Player of the Match, capping off a remarkable comeback from his recent disappointment.
