Atalanta 3-0 Shakhtar Donetsk: Lookman shines as Atalanta ease pass Shakhtar in Champions League

The result marked Atalanta’s first away win in the competition in five attempts and lifted them into contention in Group D.

Atalanta came into the game determined to break a poor run of form in Europe, and their early dominance paid off in the 21st minute. Lookman was instrumental, delivering an inch-perfect cross that allowed defender Berat Djimsiti to finish from close range, giving La Dea the lead.

The Italian side continued to press, with Lazar Samardzic almost doubling the advantage, only for Shakhtar goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk to make a crucial save. Lookman was inches away from scoring himself, hitting the crossbar with a powerful volley.

Just before halftime, Lookman found his goal. Sead Kolasinac set him up with a well-placed assist, and the Nigerian international calmly slotted the ball past Riznyk, making it 2-0 and putting Atalanta in firm control.

In the second half, Atalanta wasted no time adding a third. In the 48th minute, Davide Zappacosta delivered a cross that Raoul Bellanova converted at the back post, marking his first goal for the club since joining from Torino.

The visitors could have added a fourth goal, with Zappacosta hitting the post, but the damage was already done. Atalanta’s commanding performance saw them comfortably see out the rest of the match, securing a vital three points in their Champions League campaign.

Key Performers

• Ademola Lookman: The clear man of the match, Lookman provided a goal and an assist, continuously tormenting Shakhtar’s defense.
• Davide Zappacosta: An attacking threat throughout, Zappacosta assisted Bellanova's goal and was unlucky not to score himself.
• Berat Djimsiti: His opener set the tone for Atalanta’s dominant display.

READ ALSO: Duran the hero as Aston Villa record historic Champions League win over Bayern Munich

Atalanta's win revitalizes their Champions League hopes as they aim for a deep run in the competition. Meanwhile, Shakhtar will need a significant improvement to avoid another early exit, with their winless streak against Italian opposition extended to nine matches.