Kylian Mbappe scores first World Cup final hat-trick since England’s Sir Geoff Hurst but Argentina still beat France

ENGLAND legend Geoff Hurst saluted Kylian Mbappe as the France star became the only other man to net a World Cup final hat-trick – yet lost.

Mbappe‘s two penalties and brilliant strike earned an astonishing 3-3 draw before Argentina won the shootout 4-2.

Kylian Mbappe took the final to penalties when he completed his treble and also converted his shootout spot-kick but Argentina still triumphedGetty

PA:Press AssociationGeoff Hurst heads home on his way to a treble in England’s 4-2 win after extra time in the 1966 World Cup final against West Germany[/caption]

Lionel Messi, 35, landed World Cup glory for the first time, with two goals and an assist in a captivating Qatar climax.

But Mbappe’s astonishing tournament at the age of 23 means he appears sure to shatter a host of records in the future.

Hurst, whose treble sunk West Germany 4-2 at Wembley in 1966, posted: “Many congratulations to Mbappe, whatever happens. I’ve had a great run!”

And fans were quick to point out that the Three Lions’ hero bagged his hat-trick without any deadball help.

One said: “Tip of the hat for Geoff, but in fairness you’re still ahead on points as yours were all from open play……”

Another posted: “You are still the only person to score a hat-trick and the winning goal!”

Down the years, 52 trebles have been netted in the World Cup.

But only three players have notched more than one – Just Fontaine (1958), Gerd Muller (1970) and Gabriel Batistuta (1994 and 1998).

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And fans hailed Mbappe as much as Messi after “the greatest World Cup final ever”.

One said of the pacy superstar: “He’s the new boss” and another wrote: “Shame he had to be on the losing end… But dems da breaks.”

And one post summed up what should be a record-busting future.

The fan posted: “I find it ridiculous Mbappe has scored 8 goals in this World Cup, in 2026 he’ll be entering his prime and probably eclipse Klose’s 16 goal haul… eventually end up with 25 goals in World Cups.”

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