Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman, has said Wednesday’s Super Cup clash against Real Madrid is another opportunity for Atalanta to show their perseverance and hardwork.
Atalanta got here through Lookman’s heroics in the final of the UEFA Europa League againat Bayer Leverkusen back in May, when his hat-trick guided them to their first-ever European trophy in history.
Madrid once again rode on their pedigree by winning their 15th UEFA Champions League title at Wembley Stadium, where they defeated Borussia Dortmund 2-0 in the final.
Speaking ahead of the game stated for the National Stadium in Warsaw, Poland, on Wednesday, the Nigeria international admitted that Atalanta are ‘excited’ to face Madrid in the competiton and want to prove they ‘deserve to be here’ after winning the Europa League.
With Gianluca Scamacca, Giorgio Scalvini and Nicolò Zaniolo injured, plus Teun Koopmeiners left out over his transfer request to Juventus, the Nigeria star could take centre-stage again.
“I think tomorrow night is a different occasion. Playing in the Super Cup tomorrow is a different night. So, I’m excited, happy to be involved, and looking forward to it,” he said in the press conference.
“It’s not just me, but I think the whole squad is excited about the occasion. We deserve to be here through our hard work and perseverance. Tomorrow night is another chance to show that”.
If Atalanta were the underdogs against Leverkusen, then they can multiply that status when facing Champions League serial winners Madrid.
“It’s a top team of top players, who are ready at any moment. I don’t think there’s any good time to face Real Madrid. Obviously, they have their powers, but we also have quality”, the former Leicester City star stated.
The Merengues are expected to give new signings Kylian Mbappé and Endrick their debuts, further strengthening the squad that lifted the Champions League a couple of months ago.
During this evening’s training session, coach Gian Piero Gasperini tested out a front three of Charles De Ketelaere, Mateo Retegui and Lookman, suggesting he once again believes attack is the best form of defence.
