Liel Abada Scores 16-Minute Hat Trick as Charlotte Clinches MLS Playoff Spot

Liel Abada delivered one of the most impressive performances of his career, inspiring Charlotte to a 4-0 victory over Montreal and securing a spot in the MLS playoffs. Coming off the bench in the 65th minute, the Israeli winger scored a stunning 16-minute hat trick to seal the dominant win.

Abada found the back of the net in the 67th, 79th, and 83rd minutes, bringing his season tally to eight league goals, all scored since the All-Star break. This marked his first MLS hat trick and the second of his professional career, following a previous hat trick for Celtic in 2022. He also became just the third player in Charlotte history to score a hat trick, joining Daniel Rios and Idan Toklomaty.

The Israeli connection on the pitch was on full display. Toklomaty, who opened the scoring for Charlotte in the 7th minute, assisted Abada's second goal with a precise through ball into the box. Toklomaty continued his stellar run, reaching 15 league goals for the season and scoring in his fifth consecutive match, while also tying Karol Swiderski for the club's all-time scoring record across all competitions. Abada completed his hat trick in the 83rd minute following a neat exchange with Pep Biel.

Reflecting on his historic night, Abada said: "It is a pretty special feeling, to be honest, it is special. I have to thank the team and the staff who push me, and I am very happy, and now we must be ready for the next game." Charlotte snapped a three-game winless streak and will host Orlando on Saturday in their final regular-season home match.