- Atalanta have been eliminated from the Champions League after a 3-1 home defeat to Club Brugge, losing 5-2 on aggregate
- Club Brugge dominated the first half, with Chadi Riad Talbi scoring twice and Ferran Jutglà adding a goal before the break
- Club Brugge held on defensively to book their spot in the next round, knocking Atalanta out
Italian side Atalanta’s Champions League journey came to a disappointing end on Tuesday night, February 18, as they suffered a 3-1 home defeat to Club Brugge, sealing a 5-2 aggregate exit from the knockout round play-offs.
The Italian side had entered the match needing a comeback after losing the first leg 2-1, but their hopes were quickly dented when Club Brugge struck early.
Chadi Riad Talbi opened the scoring in the third minute, pouncing on a Ferran Jutglà assist. The Belgian side continued their dominance as Talbi doubled his tally in the 27th minute, before Jutglà added a third just before halftime, putting Atalanta in a dire situation.
Atalanta found a lifeline immediately after the break as Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman pulled one back in the 46th minute, finishing off a Davide Zappacosta assist.
However, the Nigerian forward missed a crucial penalty in the 61st minute, ending any realistic hopes of a comeback.
Their frustrations grew late on as captain Rafael Tolói saw red in the 87th minute, capping off a dismal night. Club Brugge held on to secure their place in the next round, while Atalanta bowed out in disappointment.
More to follow…
Super Eagles star Lookman shares his next milestone after Ballon d'Or nomination
Previously, TheRadar reported that Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman, one of Nigeria’s biggest football talents, had set new goals after being nominated for the prestigious 2024 Ballon d'Or and CAF Men's Player of the Year awards.
The Atalanta BC star has declared his ambition to lead Nigeria to the AFCON 2025 and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, building on his recent successes with both his club and national teams.
