Teen sensation Felix makes history with Europa League hat-trick

Goal

Teen sensation Felix makes history with Europa League hat-trick image

Joao Felix continues to add to his growing reputation, with the teenage Benfica star netting a hat-trick in Thursday's Europa League match against Eintracht Frankfurt.

Felix has seen his name linked with a host of Europe's top clubs, including Real Madrid, Manchester City and Juventus, as rumours of a nine-figure transfer this summer continue to swirl.

The 19-year-old has netted 10 times in the league for Benfica this term, and he had one of his best days as a professional on Thursday in European play. 

Watch Europa League | Soccer Live Streaming | DAZN CA

Felix scored from the spot 21 minutes into the quarter-final first leg in Lisbon, before grabbing his second right before half-time with a thunderous strike from outside the box. 

The Portugal youth international completed his hat-trick on 54 minutes, tapping home from close range after a pass from Alex Grimaldo. 

By completing the treble Felix (19 years 153 days) became the youngest player to score a hat-trick in the UEFA Cup/Europa League since Sergio Aguero (19 years 124 days) accomplished the feat for Atletico Madrid against Kayseri Erciyesspor back in October 2007.

Felix also became the youngest hat-trick scorer since the UEFA Cup was rebranded to the Europa League before the 2009-10 season.

The teenager is the first Benfica player to score a hat-trick in a European game since Antonio Pacheco scored three against NK Izola in a September 1992 UEFA Cup match.

Benfica would go on to win the match 4-2, giving them an advantage heading into the second leg in Frankfurt next Thursday. 

 

Goal

Goal Photo

Goal.com is the premier destination for football fans across the globe, with all the best news, transfer updates, analysis and highlights.

Goal.com and The Sporting News are partnering to bring you insights into the game like never before.