PIRAEUS, Greece – Kylian Mbappé scored the second-fastest hat trick in Champions League history as Real Madrid defeated Olympiacos 4-3 on Wednesday, with the France international netting three goals in the space of six minutes and 42 seconds before adding a fourth in the second half.
The 25-year-old forward took over the match after Madrid fell behind early, striking in the 22nd and 24th minutes before completing his treble moments later. Only Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah has scored a quicker Champions League hat trick, achieving the feat in six minutes and 12 seconds against Rangers in 2022.
Madrid arrived in Greece without a win in their previous three matches, and the pressure increased when Olympiacos opened the scoring. Mbappé responded decisively, first slotting a low finish after racing through on goal, then heading in Arda Güler’s cross from close range. His third came after latching onto a lofted pass from Eduardo Camavinga, finishing calmly again to put Madrid in control.
The former Paris Saint-Germain forward struck his fourth in the 59th minute, a goal that ultimately proved decisive as Olympiacos rallied late to reduce the deficit to one.
“It was very important to win again,” Mbappé said. “We know that three games without a win is a lot for a team like us. It was a difficult game; it’s hard to win here.”
Mbappé now has five Champions League hat tricks, trailing only Lionel Messi (eight), Cristiano Ronaldo (eight), and Robert Lewandowski (six). He is also closing in on the competition’s all-time scoring chart, moving within eight goals of Real Madrid legend Raúl González in fourth place.
The victory keeps Madrid firmly positioned in their bid for qualification, and Mbappé’s performance reaffirmed his importance to Carlo Ancelotti’s side after a rare three-match scoreless run. The result also underlined Madrid’s attacking depth and reliance on their marquee forward in high-pressure moments as they continue their pursuit of European silverware.
