Gasperini lauds Lookman despite Napoli defeat

Atalanta Manager Gian Piero Gasperini has praised Ademola Lookman despite his team's defeat to Serie A leaders, Napoli.

Atalanta lost 2-1 to Napoli at the Gewiss Stadium on Saturday, November 5 as the high-flying Napoli side extended their unbeaten run in the league.

Lookman, 25, gave the home side the lead from the spot in the 19th minute before his Super Eagles teammate Victor Osimhen levelled the score four minutes later.

Napoli midfielder Eljif Elmas scored what proved to be the winner in the 35th minute as Napoli recorded an astonishing nine wins in a row to extend their lead at the top to six points clear of AC Milan.

Despite the loss, Gasperini singled out the ex-RB Leipzig winger Lookman for praise after the game.

“It wasn’t easy against a defence like Napoli to create so many scoring opportunities, especially as we hit the crossbar,” the Italian manager said.

“Lookman is doing really well, and I really like [Rasmus] Hojlund. I am very satisfied with how these lads are doing.

“When you emerge from a game like this, against a Napoli side everyone can see, I leave here with the certainty we will have a good season.”

Lookman has now scored in his last three consecutive Serie A matches, the ex-Leicester City man has now managed 6 goals and 3 assists in his debut season.

WDN