On 10 September 2008, Theo Walcott produced the defining performance of his England career with a hat-trick in a 4-1 win over Croatia.
Walcott was only 19 when Fabio Capello selected him on the right wing for the World Cup qualifier at the Maksimir Stadium. The decision proved inspired as his speed repeatedly exposed Croatia’s defence.
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The Arsenal forward opened the scoring in the 26th minute, firing across goalkeeper Stipe Pletikosa after the ball broke kindly inside the penalty area.
Croatia defender Robert Kovac was dismissed early in the second half before Walcott doubled England’s advantage. Wayne Rooney created the opening, allowing the youngster to finish clinically from the right.
Rooney added England’s third four minutes later before Mario Mandzukic pulled one back for the hosts in the 78th minute.
Walcott completed his hat-trick four minutes later, racing onto Rooney’s incisive pass before calmly finishing beyond Pletikosa.
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At 19 years and 178 days, Walcott became the youngest player to score a hat-trick for England’s senior men’s team. The three strikes were also his first international goals.
England’s victory ended Croatia’s long unbeaten competitive home record and provided the first major statement of Capello’s reign.
For one unforgettable night in Zagreb, Walcott appeared ready to become the face of England’s future.
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Photo: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images
