Julian Hall etched his name into MLS history on Saturday, becoming the youngest player ever to score a hat-trick in league competition. The 16-year-old forward delivered a memorable performance for Red Bull New York during their victory over Columbus Crew, breaking a long-standing record while announcing himself as one of the sport's most promising young talents.

Lionel Messi continued his remarkable season with a two-goal, one-assist performance as Inter Miami defeated Cincinnati 5-3. The 38-year-old Argentine thought he had secured his 61st career hat-trick, but MLS officials credited the 89th-minute strike as an own goal by Cincinnati goalkeeper Roman Celentano. Messi now has 11 goals and four assists in 12 league appearances for Miami.

Sixteen-year-old Cavan Sullivan marked his name on the scoresheet for the first time, scoring in Philadelphia Union's 4-3 defeat to Orlando City. Sullivan, who became the youngest MLS player two years ago, expressed gratitude despite the loss. Elsewhere, Inter Miami moved second in the Eastern Conference, trailing leaders Nashville by just two points as the race tightens.