A hat-trick is when a player scores three goals in a single match. The player who scores the hat-trick usually asks the referee if they can keep the ball as a memento.
What does it mean?
One goal more than a brace (two goals), a hat-trick is a notable individual achievement that is often celebrated as a highlight of a player’s game or even career.
Examples
- Messi scored the first hat-trick of the tournament against Algeria.
- He completed his hat-trick with a penalty in stoppage time.
- A hat-trick from the substitute turned the game on its head.
Similar Words/Phrases
- A brace (two goals)
- A hatful (many goals)
- A treble
Learn More
- Listen to our podcast from Day 6 of the 2026 World Cup
- Translate it or use it in a sentence (forum)
- Read about this phrase from the 2018 World Cup.
Related Glossary Terms
Categories: 2026 World Cup Phrases
« Back to Glossary Index 
