History was made at Sports Illustrated Stadium as 18-year-old Julian Hall became the youngest player ever to score an MLS hat-trick, powering Red Bull New York to a thrilling 3-2 victory over Columbus Crew.
The teenage sensation needed just 50 days past his 18th birthday to shatter the previous record held by former FC Dallas striker Ricardo Pepi, who was 18 years and 196 days old when he achieved the feat against LA Galaxy in 2021. Hall delivered a masterclass, netting twice in the first half and once after the break, bringing his season tally to nine goals in just 13 appearances.
Hall's journey to this milestone has been remarkable. Making his MLS debut at just 15 years old in 2023, he has already represented the United States at U-15 and U-17 levels, while also holding dual eligibility for Poland. After the match, an emotional Hall reflected on the achievement: "It just makes me think about all the times I was working so hard to make memories like this."
Head coach Michael Bradley couldn't hide his admiration for the young star, describing him as "a great kid" who brings the right attitude every day. "Nothing's going in his head. He comes in every day ready to work, ready to train, ready to listen. He has great personality," Bradley added.
The victory keeps Red Bull in sixth place in the Eastern Conference with 18 points, level with local rivals New York City. The two sides are set for an exciting derby clash this Saturday.
Elsewhere in the Eastern Conference, Lionel Messi continued his vintage form, scoring twice and adding an assist as Inter Miami defeated Cincinnati 5-3 to climb to second place, just two points behind leaders Nashville. The 38-year-old Argentine nearly bagged the 61st hat-trick of his legendary career, but the league ruled his late strike an own goal after Cincinnati goalkeeper Roman Celentano inadvertently turned the ball into his own net off the post. Messi's season stats now stand at an impressive 11 goals and 4 assists in 12 MLS appearances, adding to his career totals of 909 goals and 411 assists.
Meanwhile, 16-year-old Cavan continues to turn heads, proving that the future of soccer is in exciting hands.