Kylian Mbappé’s Record-Breaking Hat Trick
In an impressive display of skill and speed, Kylian Mbappé made headlines on Wednesday by achieving the second-fastest hat trick in Champions League history. Playing for Real Madrid against Olympiacos, the French star accomplished this remarkable feat in a mere 6 minutes and 42 seconds. Only Mohamed Salah‘s record of 6 minutes and 12 seconds, set during a match with Rangers in October 2022, stands quicker.
The Match Turnaround
The match took an electrifying turn when Real Madrid found themselves trailing 1-0 early on. However, in the 22nd minute, Mbappé ignited the comeback with a well-placed shot from the edge of the penalty area, leveling the score after receiving a precise through ball. Just moments later, he showcased his aerial prowess, heading in a cross from Arda Güler to make it 2-1.
Mbappé’s relentless pursuit of the net continued as he scored his third goal shortly after, expertly finishing a pass from Eduardo Camavinga. He wasn’t done yet, adding a fourth goal in the 59th minute, further asserting his dominance on the field.
Champions League Achievements
This hat trick marked Mbappé’s second in the current Champions League season, having previously struck three times against Kairat Almaty in September. With this performance, he now boasts a total of five career hat tricks in the tournament, placing him fourth on the all-time list. The record is held by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, both with eight, while Robert Lewandowski is in third with six.
Mbappé’s prolific scoring has positioned him as the fifth-highest goalscorer in Champions League history, as he approaches Raúl González‘s total, needing just eight more goals to tie with the Real Madrid legend. This resurgence in form comes after a challenging period where the forward had not scored in his last three appearances for Madrid, which resulted in no wins for the team during that stretch.
