Paulinho won't forget the game against Uruguay anytime soon, as he managed to score his first professional hat-trick while entering Brazil's all-time record books.
According to stats specialist Mister Chip, the Brazilian midfielder became the first player from his country to score a hat-trick while playing at Centenario Stadium. His goals were crucial for A Canarinha's comeback win over Uruguay, cementing themselves as the tournament leaders.
But this was not the only record Paulinho achieved tonight. The former Tottenham player also matched legendary midfielder Tostao and Romario as the only players to score a hat-trick in a CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifier.
How did fans react to his performance? Have a look.
Paulinho scored a hat-trick for Brazil! pic.twitter.com/PUtl8qad9u
— Adam Thomas Warlow (@AdamWarlow3) March 24, 2017
"Arevalo must be googling Paulinho because he never got to see his face tonight! He was able to see his number all night long."
Arévalo Ríos debe estar googleando a Paulinho porque no le vio la cara en todo el partido, siempre el número.
— Alejandro (@miraotrochino) March 24, 2017
YOU HAVE WITNESSED HISTORY, PAULINHO FC
— #WCQualificação2018 (@BrazilEdition) March 24, 2017
HAT-TRICK DO PAULINHO pic.twitter.com/dC4nJxClKY
— São Paulinos™ (@citou_soberano) March 24, 2017