Haji Wright’s Hat Trick Propels Coventry City to Victory
In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Haji Wright, the United States forward, made headlines by scoring his first hat trick in English soccer. This remarkable feat helped Coventry City secure a 3-0 win over Sunderland on Saturday in the second-tier Championship. For fans of the beautiful game, this was a match to remember, and for Wright, it was a personal milestone that will surely boost his confidence and career.
Wright, a 26-year-old hailing from Los Angeles, opened the scoring in the 21st minute. His second goal came from a penalty kick in the 29th minute, which he earned after being fouled by Chris Mepham. Wright completed his hat trick in the 73rd minute, marking his 10th goal in 19 league matches this season. This performance not only showcased his scoring prowess but also highlighted his ability to perform under pressure.
For those keeping track, this was Wright’s second career hat trick, with his first occurring in August 2021 while playing for Turkish club Antalyaspor. It’s a testament to his growth and adaptability as a player, transitioning from the Turkish league to making a significant impact in English soccer.
Wright’s achievement places him in an elite group of USMNT players. He is now the second USMNT player to score a hat trick in one of England’s top two divisions in the last two seasons, following in the footsteps of Christian Pulisic, who achieved this feat with Chelsea in October 2019. This accomplishment not only highlights Wright’s individual talent but also underscores the growing influence of American players in European soccer.
Wright’s journey back to the field has been one of resilience. He returned on March 1 from an ankle injury that had sidelined him since November 9. Despite still regaining his fitness, his performance against Sunderland was nothing short of spectacular. However, due to his recent return from injury, he was not selected for the upcoming U.S. matches in the Concacaf Nations League. This decision, while understandable, leaves fans eagerly anticipating his future contributions to the national team.
For those who followed the 2022 World Cup, Wright’s name might ring a bell. He scored the U.S. goal in the second-round loss to the Netherlands. This goal, though in a losing effort, was a highlight of his international career and demonstrated his ability to perform on the world stage.
- Wright’s first hat trick in English soccer
- Scored 10 goals in 19 league matches this season
- Second USMNT player with a hat trick in England’s top two divisions in the last two seasons
- Returned from an ankle injury on March 1
- Scored for the U.S. in the 2022 World Cup against the Netherlands
As we look ahead, the question on everyone’s mind is: what’s next for Haji Wright? With his recent performance, the sky seems to be the limit. Whether it’s continuing to shine in the Championship or making a mark on the international stage, Wright’s journey is one that fans will be eager to follow. His hat trick against Sunderland is not just a personal achievement but a beacon of hope for American soccer fans, signaling the potential for more U.S. players to make their mark in Europe.
Originally Written by: Associated Press
