Ademola Lookman cut a frustrated figure at the Gewiss Stadium as Atalanta’s Serie A title ambitions took a significant hit following a goalless draw against relegation-threatened Venezia.

The Nigerian forward, one of Atalanta’s most influential players this season, was at the heart of the home side’s attacking efforts but failed to find the decisive breakthrough. His best chance arrived in the 83rd minute when Sead Kolasinac’s flicked header found him unmarked at the far post, only for Lookman to send his effort soaring over the bar, a miss that summed up Atalanta’s agonizing night.

Earlier in the match, Atalanta’s dominance was evident as they twice struck the woodwork in the first half. Lookman showcased his creativity in the 39th minute, weaving past defenders before setting up Davide Zappacosta with a stunning backheel pass. Zappacosta’s shot, however, clipped the outside of the post, letting Venezia off the hook. Moments later, Lookman delivered a dangerous cross that evaded Charles De Ketelaere, allowing Juan Cuadrado a chance at goal, but the Colombian’s effort rattled the post once again.

Lookman’s missed opportunities came at a tough time, just days after his crucial penalty miss in Atalanta’s Champions League exit—an incident that had already drawn criticism from head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. Despite the setback, Lookman’s season statistics remain stellar, with 17 goals and seven assists in all competitions, a remarkable feat considering he missed several weeks due to injury.

Atalanta were also without key defender Isak Hien, and though Venezia showed resilience on the counterattack, they lacked the cutting edge to punish the hosts. Still, the dropped points could prove costly in the title race, especially with league leaders Inter Milan and second-placed Napoli set to face off later in the evening.

Reflecting on the match, Gasperini acknowledged Lookman’s influence but lamented the team’s lack of finishing.

“Ademola remains the player who creates the most danger, he often shoots on goal and is always dangerous,” Gasperini told TuttoAtalanta. “It’s true that today he had some important opportunities that he didn’t make the most of, but he is still the liveliest. At the moment, we are paying dearly for the lack of precision in the final touch, in the goal that can change these blocked matches.”

With the draw, Atalanta remain third in Serie A, still chasing Inter Milan and Napoli as the title race intensifies.