Former Tottenham Hotspur captain Michael Dawson has weighed in on Ademola Lookman’s disallowed goal during Atalanta’s 2-1 win over Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday night.

Lookman, who has endured a challenging start to the season, thought he had levelled the score for Atalanta in the 52nd minute at Stadio di Bergamo after slotting home a pass from former Chelsea full-back Davide Zappacosta. 

However, the assistant referee’s flag went up immediately, and the referee confirmed the Nigerian forward was marginally offside in the build-up.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Dawson backed the officiating team, noting that the decision mirrored one of Chelsea’s own goals in terms of positioning.

"He's offside. It's similar to the Chelsea goal,” he said. 

Despite the disappointment of seeing the equaliser chalked off, Lookman delivered an energetic and threatening display throughout his time on the pitch. 

The 28-year-old registered one shot on target, two additional efforts that were saved, and was flagged offside three times as he continually tested the Chelsea backline.

Lookman combined well with Atalanta’s goalscorers Gianluca Scamacca and Charles De Ketelaere, contributing to a dynamic attacking front that troubled the visitors for much of the encounter.

The Nigerian international, named recently in the 54-man provisional list ahead of the 2025 AFCON, will be eager to maintain his form and carry the momentum into the continental showpiece next week.

Adeyemi Adewale