Haji Wright scores first hat trick in England
- Haji Wright scored three goals in a match for Coventry, leading to a 3-0 victory over Sunderland.
- This performance followed his return from a lengthy injury absence since November 2024.
- Wright's hat trick is crucial for his prospects with the U.S. Men's National Team as injuries have left a void in forward positions.
In England, Haji Wright, an American forward, achieved a significant milestone by scoring his first hat trick during a match. This event took place in the Championship league on Saturday, March 15, 2025, where Coventry City faced off against Sunderland. Wright's performance was remarkable as he netted three goals, contributing to a decisive 3-0 victory for his team, indicating his ability to find the back of the net effectively. His goals came in various forms, with the first goal observed in the 21st minute following a pass that he skillfully converted after a touch to evade a defender. Wright's second goal was from the penalty spot in the 29th minute after being fouled by Chris Mepham of Sunderland. His hat trick was complete in the 73rd minute with a finesse finish that showcased his talent and precision. Wright's return to form is particularly notable as he recently regained fitness after a prolonged ankle injury that sidelined him since November 2024, which had impacted his participation in earlier matches. The timing of this performance is also critical as it comes during a shortage of forwards for the U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT), making Wright's scoring display even more significant for coach Mauricio Pochettino. His impressive output of 10 goals in 19 league matches this season is a testament to his skills and determination to make a mark again in professional soccer. Wright's coach at Coventry, Frank Lampard, expressed his excitement about Wright's return, asserting that he is a vital player for the team and highlighting the importance of his clinical finishing in the match against Sunderland. With this hat trick, Wright not only solidified his role at Coventry but also likely elevated his chances for selection in upcoming USMNT fixtures, especially given the context of the recent injuries of other forwards. Overall, Haji Wright’s performance is a clear indicator of his potential and determination to perform at high levels, particularly as he aims to regain his position on the national team.