Real Madrid forward Rodrygo scored the perfect hat-trick to announce himself to the world.
The star man in Los Blancos’ 6-0 victory over Galatasaray on Wednesday, he became the second youngest player to net a treble in the Champions League at 18.
Who is first? Real legend Raul, of course.
Rodrygo is now in the record books and already he has been dubbed ‘the new Neymar.’
It was a seriously impressive display as Real blew the Turkish giants away.
Joining this summer from Santos, following in the footsteps of Robinho 15 years earlier, he has proved to be more than just an exciting prospect but an effective goalscorer too.
Rodrygo has scored five times in his first six appearances in the Spanish capital and put his side ahead after only four minutes in Wednesday’s big win.
Scoring with his left foot from a Marcelo pass, his compatriot turned provider again, crossing for a pinpoint header only three minutes later. A brace on the seven minute mark. Done.
It took until injury-time however, to grab the third. Denied the chance of a hat-trick as Sergio Ramos struck from the spot rather than giving the teen the chance from 12 yards, Rodrygo completed the ‘perfect’ trio of goals with a right-foot poke home.
⚽️ 7' Head
⚽️ 90+1' Right foot
Rodrygo became the youngest player to score a perfect hat-trick in the Champions League and only the third to score a hat-trick at 18.
Unbelievable prospect. 🔥
"Hearing the Bernabeu singing my name is a dream come true,” he told press after the game.
"I'm so happy, it has been a joyous night but I must try and stay calm.”
A wise head on young shoulders, Rodrygo has every chance, with an abundance of talent, to become Real’s next superstar.
Learning and playing behind Karim Benzema, who himself scored in a 15th Champions League campaign to match Lionel Messi’s record, he has already shown his qualities.
He plays the right way too, always attacking, something which brings joy to Benzema.
"Rodrygo is only 18 years old but he is fearless. I love to see a young footballer play this way," he said.
Manager Zinedine Zidane is a big fan of the skilful striker and said: "He doesn't surprise me. He has a bit of everything. He is intelligent, he learns very fast and wants to learn and improve.
“Technically, he knows how to do everything with the ball.
“He came here to do what he's doing. This is just the beginning. Let's hope he carries on like this. We need to stay calm with him."
Remaining calm is vital, although it’s impossible to not get excited by this incredible talent.
