Bayer Leverkusen's 51-Game Unbeaten Run Ends in Europa League Final
Lookman's Hat-Trick Stuns Leverkusen, Delivers Atalanta First Major Trophy in 61 Years
Europa League Stats Form:
- Goals scored: Atalanta 22, Bayer Leverkusen 31
- Goals conceded: Atalanta 8, Bayer Leverkusen 13
Atalanta's remarkable journey in the Europa League culminated in a historic triumph as they overcame Bayer Leverkusen 3-2 in the final on Wednesday, May 18, 2023, at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest.
Bayer Leverkusen, who had gone on a remarkable 51-game unbeaten run, were stunned by a brilliant display from Ademola Lookman. The Nigerian forward scored a stunning hat-trick, including a magnificent solo goal in the second half, to shatter Leverkusen's dream of lifting the trophy.
Atalanta, who had previously eliminated Manchester City and Barcelona in the knockout rounds, played with verve and determination throughout the match. Their victory marks their first major European trophy in the club's history. It is also the first time an Italian team has won the Europa League since 1999, when Parma lifted the title.
The Europa League triumph is a testament to the incredible resurgence of Atalanta under manager Gian Piero Gasperini. The Italian coach has transformed the once-struggling club into a formidable force in Italian football and on the European stage.
Bayer Leverkusen, despite their disappointment, can take solace in the fact that they have established themselves as one of the most consistent teams in European football. Their unbeaten run, which began in October 2021, is a testament to their quality and resilience.
As the dust settles on a thrilling Europa League season, it is Atalanta who emerge as the unlikely champions. Their victory is a reminder that anything is possible in football and that dreams, no matter how audacious, can become reality.
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