Espanyol’s Puado hits hat trick in win over Alaves

On Saturday, Javi Puado showcased his exceptional skills by scoring a hat trick, leading Espanyol to a thrilling 3-2 victory against Alaves in the Spanish league. The match took place at Espanyol's home ground in Barcelona, marking a significant moment for the team, which has recently returned to the top division after spending a season in the second division. Puado's first goal came in the 21st minute when he skillfully directed a low cross into the net. The game saw a competitive back-and-forth, with Tomas Conechny equalizing for Alaves in the 56th minute. However, Puado quickly restored Espanyol's lead, scoring with a precise glancing header. The tension escalated when Nahuel Tenaglia leveled the score at 2-2, setting the stage for a dramatic finish. In the dying moments of the match, Puado was awarded a penalty after Walid Cheddira was tripped by Alaves goalkeeper Antonio Sivera in the penalty area. Puado confidently converted the penalty, securing the win for Espanyol and completing his hat trick. This victory marks Espanyol's second consecutive win, highlighting their strong performance since their promotion. The match not only underscores Puado's importance to the team but also reflects Espanyol's determination to establish themselves in the league after their recent promotion. The win boosts their confidence as they aim to build momentum in the ongoing season.