Michael Olise scored a stunning hat-trick for France in a 3-1 win over Northern Ireland in their final pre-World Cup friendly, providing a timely reminder of his world-class ability and giving Liverpool fresh food for thought as they search for a replacement for Mohamed Salah.
The match was coach Didier Deschamps’ last chance to fine-tune his team ahead of their Group I opener against Senegal on June 16.
It was exactly the response France needed after suffering an unexpected 2-1 defeat to Ivory Coast last week.
France’s Michael Olisse shines in 3-1 win over Northern Ireland
Olise broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute, just before half-time. Ousmane Dembele saw his shot blocked and the rebound gently hit the Bayern Munich winger, who fired home from close range to give France the lead.
The second half was completely Olise’s. He doubled France’s advantage in the second half with a powerful blow.
In the 75th minute, he cut inside from the right flank and fired a stunning left-footed shot into the top corner of the goal, sealing France’s victory and completing his hat-trick.
Liverpool are likely to sign Oliseh to replace Mohamed Salah
Olise’s incredible performances have not dampened Liverpool’s reported interest in the 24-year-old.
The Reds face a big task this summer in filling the right-wing hole after Mohamed Salah departs after nine years as Liverpool’s talisman, third all-time top scorer with 256 goals.
Olise has emerged as one of the most frequently mentioned candidates.
The Bayern Munich star is reportedly on the radar of Liverpool as a natural successor to Salah, with his left-footed style and goal threat from the right flank drawing direct comparisons to the Egyptian.
Former Liverpool winger Jermaine Pennant went even further, publicly appealing to the club to sign him “at all costs”.
However, this obstacle is significant. Bayern Munich have been clear in their stance, with sporting director Max Hebert saying the winger is “absolutely untouchable” and the club have “no second thoughts” about selling him.
Bayern have every reason to hold on, as Olise is still under contract with Munich and has scored 19 goals and provided 29 assists in all competitions this season.
But for Liverpool fans watching from Merseyside, tonight’s hat-trick will only strengthen their dreams of seeing Olise in red next season.
