Younes Bentaleb makes strong Morocco case with Bundesliga hat-trick for Frankfurt

Moroccan-born striker Younes Bentaleb strengthened his case for a place in the Morocco national team after scoring a hat-trick for Eintracht Frankfurt in a thrilling 3-3 draw away to Union Berlin in the opening round of the Bundesliga season on Saturday.

The 22-year-old forward made an explosive start to the campaign, scoring twice within the opening 11 minutes before completing his hat-trick in the second half.

Bentaleb’s display will increase calls for him to be considered by Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi as the Atlas Lions continue to monitor the country’s emerging attacking talent.

Bentaleb strikes twice in two minutes

Frankfurt’s striker wasted little time making his mark in Berlin.

Bentaleb opened the scoring in the 10th minute before finding the net again just a minute later to give his side a 2-0 advantage.

His quick double highlighted his finishing ability and his movement inside the penalty area.

Union Berlin fought back to level the contest, setting up an entertaining second half.

Moroccan striker completes hat-trick

Bentaleb restored Frankfurt’s advantage in the 67th minute, completing his hat-trick and putting the visitors 3-2 ahead.

Union Berlin eventually found another equaliser as the match ended 3-3, but Bentaleb’s individual performance remained the major talking point.

The three goals provided an emphatic statement from a striker who is emerging as one of the players to watch in the Bundesliga.

Dual nationality adds to Morocco interest

Bentaleb, who holds both Moroccan and German nationality, is contracted to Eintracht Frankfurt until the summer of 2031.

The 22-year-old primarily operates as a centre-forward and has attracted attention for his goalscoring instincts and ability to take advantage of opportunities inside the box.

His hat-trick could now put him firmly on Morocco’s radar.

With the Atlas Lions under the leadership of Ouahbi, Bentaleb’s goalscoring form gives the coach another attacking option to consider as Morocco continues to develop a new generation of talent.