USMNT abroad: Matthew Hoppe shines for Schalke

Matthew Hoppe (Photo by INA FASSBENDER/AFP via Getty Images)

Matthew Hoppe became the first American player to score a hat-trick in the Bundesliga

It was an incredible performance from 19-year-old Matthew Hoppe on Saturday against Hoffenheim. The Schalke forward registered his first career hat-trick in the German top flight and became the first American player to record a three-goal performance in the Bundesliga.

Hoppe’s three goals propelled Schalke to an important three points in the relegation battle at the bottom of the Bundesliga table. Schalke moved out of last place and into 17th place as they registered their first victory of the 2020/21 Bundesliga season. Additionally, they ended a 30…