Charlotte FC: Abada Hat Trick Secures Playoff Spot

Fans in Charlotte gained guaranteed access to the 2026 MLS Cup playoffs after their team defeated CF Montreal 4-0 on Wednesday night. The victory snapped a three-game winless streak for the Charlotte FC, improving their record to 14-10-8.

Liel Abada, who entered the game as a substitute, scored a career-high three goals in 15 minutes to seal the outcome. His first goal came in the 67th minute, followed by strikes in the 79th and 83rd minutes. This performance marks Abada's first career hat trick and the third in club history.

Idan Toklomati opened the scoring in the seventh minute with a header from the center of the area. Allan Saint-Maximin provided the assist after spinning past a defender near the left corner of the box. Toklomati also recorded an assist later in the match. Pep Biel added three assists, extending his influence in the attack.

The 25-year-old forward has scored all eight of his goals this season since the All-Star break. His performance helped Charlotte overcome a Montreal squad that has lost four of its last five games. Montreal now holds the fewest points in the Eastern Conference with 25.

Goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina made one save for Charlotte. For Montreal, 17-year-old Samsy Keita stopped three shots while making his second consecutive start. The loss leaves Montreal with a minus-30 goal differential, the worst in the Eastern Conference.

Charlotte will now prepare for the upcoming playoff rounds after securing their berth with this decisive win. The result concludes the regular season portion of their campaign for this segment of the schedule.