Lamine Yamal scored the first career hat-trick as Barcelona recorded a commanding 4-1 victory over Villarreal to remain top of La Liga.
The 18-year-old put Barcelona firmly in control before half-time, netting twice within nine minutes — both goals set up by Fermin Lopez. His clinical finishing ensured the hosts went into the break with a commanding advantage.
Villarreal responded after the interval when Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye reduced the deficit, and the visitors later missed a gilt-edged opportunity to level the score.
However, Yamal completed his landmark treble to restore Barcelona’s dominance before substitute Robert Lewandowski added a fourth in stoppage time to seal the result.
The victory moves Barcelona four points clear of Real Madrid CF, who host Getafe CF on Monday.
According to Opta, Yamal’s feat, achieved at 18 years and 230 days, makes him the youngest player this century to score his first La Liga hat-trick, underlining his rapid ascent as one of Spanish football’s brightest talents.
