Atalanta vs Slavia Prague: Super Eagles Star Lookman Struggles Again, Goal Drought Deepens

Atalanta supporters grow increasingly impatient as Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman‘s goal drought persists following the stalemate with Slavia Prague. Can he rediscover his scoring touch?

Atalanta’s pursuit of Champions League success hit a roadblock at the Gewiss Stadium today, ending in a frustrating 0-0 draw against Slavia Prague.

Although Atalanta controlled the ball and fashioned several promising opportunities (Expected Goals – xG: 1.77 for Atalanta versus 0.37 for Slavia), their inability to capitalize in front of goal was glaring.

This goalless outcome deepens the concerns surrounding Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman, whose scoring drought now spans five straight matches for La Dea.

Lookman’s Offensive Struggles Continue

The fixture was anticipated as an ideal moment for Lookman-who recently missed out on the 2025 CAF Player of the Year shortlist-to revive his season’s form.

Ademola Lookman was tightly marked again for Atalanta. (Photo Credit: Atalanta/X)
Ademola Lookman was tightly marked again for Atalanta. (Photo Credit: Atalanta/X)

Despite playing 62 minutes before being substituted, Lookman was unable to register a single shot on target.

He did, however, display flashes of creativity, crafting two chances and delivering two key passes, but the elusive goal remained out of reach.

The pressure on the current CAF Awards holder is mounting visibly. Atalanta’s fanbase, eager to witness the resurgence of the player who once netted a historic hat-trick in last season’s Europa League final, is growing increasingly vocal about his recent lackluster performances.

Slavia’s Goalkeeper Shines to Secure a Point

The standout performer of the evening was Slavia Prague’s goalkeeper Jakub Markovic. The 24-year-old was instrumental in maintaining the clean sheet, producing a series of remarkable saves.

Jakub Markovic making a crucial save against Atalanta. (Photo Credit: UEFA)
Jakub Markovic making a crucial save against Atalanta. (Photo Credit: UEFA)

Markovic’s defining moments came in the first half, where he thwarted a one-on-one chance from defender Odilon Kossounou and deflected a fierce shot from Charles De Ketelaere just wide of the post.

De Ketelaere, Atalanta’s creative force, consistently threatened the opposition defense, but the final decisive touch from his teammates, including Nikola Krstovic-who squandered several key chances-was noticeably absent.

This 0-0 stalemate marks Atalanta’s third consecutive match without a victory, with only one goal scored during this period, underscoring a troubling lack of offensive sharpness. Despite Ivan Juric‘s well-structured tactical approach, the team’s failure to convert clear opportunities remains a pressing issue.

Lookman’s ongoing goal drought mirrors the squad’s broader attacking difficulties. Since his return following a protracted summer transfer saga and the disappointment of missing out on the CAF awards, the Nigerian forward faces intense scrutiny regarding both his mental resilience and physical form.