UEFA Super Cup: Atalanta ready for Madrid, says Lookman
Ademola Lookman, a winger for Atalanta, claims his club is ready for the UEFA Super Cup matchup with Real Madrid. La Dea want to capitalise on their recent success in Europe and challenge the Spanish powerhouses for yet another major title.
On Wednesday night in Warsaw, Atalanta, who won their first-ever European championship with a convincing 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Europa League final, will take on the current holders of the UEFA Champions League.
With new arrivals Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Jr. in Carlo Ancelotti's star-studded side, Lookman is keen to put himself to the test against what could be an exciting encounter.
"Now is the time to play the games you always wanted to play as a kid," the Nigerian international was cited by Tribal Football.
"After winning the Europa League, we're vying for yet another championship. We are preparing with insatiable attention because we can't wait. Yes, then, we will be prepared.
With his historic hat trick in Atalanta's UEFA Europa League final victory over Bayer Leverkusen, Lookman made football history in Europe. He was the first player to score a hat-trick in the competition's final, ending Bayer Leverkusen's 51-match winning streak and winning Atalanta their first major title since 1963. Lookman's confidence follows this achievement.
The 26-year-old will spearhead Atlanta's attack in their attempt to upset the Spanish giants.
Real Madrid is eager to add another trophy to their impressive collection. Coming off of their most recent Champions League victory, they have unveiled a strong 24-man roster for the Super Cup.
Lookman underlined the importance of the competition, so Atlanta is not scared. "We don't need great motivation," the winger said, clearly enjoying the chance to play against some of the finest players in the world. It's an appointment with history as we take on the best team on the planet. "It's an exciting time for everyone, a thrilling chapter." Additionally, Lookman will have the opportunity to solidify his status as one of Africa's best players by winning the Super Cup. Victor Boniface, a Leverkusen player, is also vying for the Aafrica Player of the Year Award, which he is already in the running for thanks to his incredible 2023–24 season, which saw him score 15 goals and dish out eight assists across all competitions.