Forward Yanis Begraoui’s recent hat-trick has injected renewed optimism into Estoril Praia, with the player underscoring the collective effort to lift his struggling team in Portugal’s top league.
The 24-year-old French-Moroccan forward scored three goals against Rio Ave, securing a crucial 4-0 victory. This marked Estoril’s second win of the I Liga season.
Begraoui told the Lusa news agency that while personally delighted, the team’s need for the victory made this individual achievement particularly significant.
“Perhaps this hat-trick is more special because the team needed this victory,” Begraoui said. “When you score three goals it’s always great, but the most important thing is the team.”
He highlighted teamwork as essential for his individual success. “It was a good game, great team work, and only then could I have achieved this feat,” he explained, referencing a “great team play” that led to his second goal.
Estoril Praia currently sits in 12th position in the I Liga with 10 points after 10 rounds of play.
Begraoui, who is in his second year with the club, emphasized the entire squad’s commitment to improvement.
“Estoril does not belong in this position, we can do better,” he stated, adding that the team is now “more aware of what the coach wants.”
He also scored three goals in a single game last season against Estrela da Amadora, but noted the current achievement felt “more special” due to the team’s circumstances.
Begraoui has now tallied five goals in the I Liga this season. He pledged to contribute in any way possible, stating, “Whether with goals or assists, I just want to help the club grow.”