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Football Insider

Ivan Toney's World Cup Dream: A Hat-Trick Heroine for Al-Ahli

Ivan Toney has been in scintillating form for Al-Ahli, sending a resounding message to England coach Thomas Tuchel with a stunning hat-trick against Al-Khaleej. His 22 goals in 26 games this season underline his unstoppable goal-scoring prowess, making him a compelling contender for the Three Lions' squad at the 2026 World Cup.

Ivan Toney's World Cup Dream: A Hat-Trick Heroine for Al-Ahli

Ivan Toney has sent a thunderous message to the England coach Thomas Tuchel ahead of the 2026 World Cup, netting a sensational hat-trick for Al-Ahli in their clash against Al-Khaleej. The striker's treble takes his tally to a staggering 22 goals in 26 games this season, with his blistering post-winter break form making him a tough one to ignore for the Three Lions squad.Toney produced a masterclass in finishing on Tuesday night, single-handedly dismantling Al-Khaleej to keep Al-Ahli’s season momentum charging forward. The England striker was at his imperious best, showcasing the full repertoire of hold-up play, aerial dominance, and clinical finishing that made him a household name in the Premier League.The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly his third goal, which sealed the hat-trick and the match ball. As captured in footage circulating on social media, Toney displayed his predatory instincts to find space in the box before coolly slotting home, underlining his confidence in front of goal. It was a performance of pure authority, with Toney leading the line with a hunger that suggests he is a man on a mission as the domestic season enters its decisive phase.While his overall season statistics are impressive, it is Toney’s form since the Saudi Pro League returned from its winter hiatus that is truly turning heads. The hat-trick against Al-Khaleej means the forward has now scored 10 goals since the restart, a run of form that rivals any striker currently operating in world football.His total of 22 goals in 26 games across all competitions this season is a testament to his consistency and adaptation to life in Jeddah. Critics who suggested a move to the Middle East might blunt his competitive edge have been firmly silenced. Instead, Toney appears sharper than ever, maintaining elite physical condition and a ruthlessness that has become his trademark.With the 2026 World Cup in North America looming on the horizon, the timing of Toney’s purple patch could not be better. While playing outside of Europe often brings a "out of sight, out of mind" risk for international hopefuls, Toney’s numbers are simply too loud to ignore.He was recalled to the England squad by coach Tuchel in June last year but remained an unused substitute for the game against Andorra before coming off the bench in the 88th minute against Senegal days later. Tuchel explained after that match that he sees Tony as "a specialist for exactly these situations" as he defended the decision to hand him such a brief appearance. "I think Ivan is strongest when we have a phase where we have a lot of balls in the box and that was the case, so after 80 minutes we got him ready. Then we scored and they took the goal away and it took a little while longer than we wanted but that's what he can give - presence in the box and a goal later in the match."Toney has not been part of the England squad since then. Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingBeyond his international aspirations, Toney’s goals are fueling Al-Ahli’s ambitions on the domestic front. His leadership at the top of the pitch has become the focal point of the team's attack, providing a reliable outlet even when the side is under pressure.As Al-Ahli look to close out the season with silverware, they will be relying heavily on their English talisman to maintain this electric pace. They sit second in the Saudi Pro League and remain in a strong position in their AFC Champions League group.

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Ivan Toney's Goal-Scoring Masterclass

Ivan Toney's performance against Al-Khaleej showcased his exceptional talent, combining hold-up play, aerial dominance, and clinical finishing in a mesmerizing display. His hat-trick, capped off by a sublime third goal, highlighted his predatory instincts and unwavering confidence in front of goal.

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Formidable Form and Adaptation in Jeddah

Since the return of the Saudi Pro League from its winter break, Toney has been a goal-scoring machine, netting 10 goals and taking his season tally to 22 in 26 appearances. His consistency and adaptability to life in Jeddah have silenced critics, with Toney proving that his competitive edge remains razor-sharp.

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Eyeing World Cup Glory

With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Toney's dazzling form positions him as a potent weapon for England's campaign. Despite concerns about playing outside Europe affecting his chances, Toney's prolific goal-scoring exploits demand attention and could secure his spot in the national team.

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Al-Ahli's Dependence on Toney

Beyond his international aspirations, Toney's goals are pivotal for Al-Ahli's success in both domestic and AFC Champions League competitions. His leadership and goal-scoring prowess have propelled the team to second in the Saudi Pro League, with hopes of clinching silverware riding high.

Published on Jan 21, 2026