UCL: Quiet night in Bergamo for Lookman as Atalanta share spoils with Arsenal
David Raya's penalty-saving brilliance helped Arsenal secure a draw against Ademola Lookman's Atalanta in Bergamo on Thursday evening, Nigeriasoccernet.com writes.
The Gunners' goalkeeper made a crucial double save during a penalty, preserving their unbeaten record in the opening week of the Champions League.
Despite a lackluster first half, Atalanta found themselves with a prime opportunity to break the deadlock through a penalty. Thomas Partey, after mistiming his challenge on Brazilian midfielder Ederson both inside and outside the box, gave away the penalty.
This presented Mateo Retegui with the chance to put Atalanta ahead. However, David Raya made a sharp dive to block the initial shot, and his quick reflexes denied Retegui's rebound header.
Arsenal began to play with more confidence as the game progressed, with Martinelli launching another attempt that soared over the bar. Juan Cuadrado also posed a threat with a few powerful shots that left Raya rooted to the spot. However, neither team could break the deadlock, resulting in yet another 0-0 draw between English and Italian sides during the opening week of the competition.
From the very start, Lookman appeared energetic and eager to make an impact. After announcing himself with a hat-trick in the Europa League final, he seems equally determined to shine in the Champions League. Although facing one of Europe’s toughest defenses in the opening match, his potential will likely be realized in the upcoming weeks.
Oluwayemi Omolagba
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