Today at Spotify Camp Nou, Lamine Yamal reached a significant milestone in his career. The 18-year-old Barcelona winger scored three goals in a 4-1 win over Villarreal, achieving his first professional hat-trick at a younger age than Lionel Messi did.
Yamal’s Performance Against Villarreal
Barcelona had a shaky start, with Ferran Torres and Jules Kounde missing scoring chances. However, in the 28th minute, Yamal capitalized on a mistake by Pape Gueye, receiving the ball from Fermin Lopez and scoring easily. The score was 1-0.
Just ten minutes later, Yamal doubled the lead. He picked up the ball on the right, outmaneuvered two defenders, and placed a stunning shot into the corner of the net, making it 2-0 by halftime.
Villarreal reduced the deficit early in the second half with a goal from Pape Gueye, making it 2-1. But Yamal responded by scoring again after receiving a pass from Pedri, completing his hat-trick with a strong finish. The final score was rounded out by a tap-in from Robert Lewandowski, resulting in a 4-1 victory.
Yamal’s Record-Breaking Achievement
Yamal has set impressive records at just 18 years old:
- Youngest La Liga hat-trick scorer in the 21st century at 18 years and 230 days, surpassing Gio dos Santos and Santi Mina.
- First player to reach 25 goals before turning 19 in Europe’s top five leagues this century.
- Achieved his first hat-trick younger than Lionel Messi, who was 19 years and 259 days old at his first hat-trick.
Impact on Barcelona’s Title Chances
This victory is crucial for Barcelona’s title aspirations, putting them four points ahead of Real Madrid, who play later. With a Copa del Rey semi-final against Atletico Madrid coming up, this momentum is vital for the team.
After recent setbacks, Barcelona’s ability to bounce back is commendable. Yamal’s current form adds to the team’s resilience, making inconsistencies less of a concern.
Yamal’s Emerging Talent
What stands out about Yamal is not just his goals but how he scores them. His calmness in tight situations and effectiveness in one-on-ones highlight a maturity that is rare for his age.
As comparisons to Messi continue, Yamal may find some frustrating and embrace others. However, displays like today suggest that he is destined for greatness.