Watch: Former Celtic star Liel Abada scores sensational 18-minute hat-trick in MLS

The Israeli international, who departed Parkhead in March 2024, was the star of the show despite beginning the Eastern Conference encounter on the substitutes’ bench.

Charlotte boss Dean Smith opted to start former Newcastle United winger Allan Saint-Maximin ahead of Abada, but the former Hoops attacker made an immediate impact following his introduction.

With Charlotte holding a slender 1-0 advantage courtesy of Idan Toklomati’s early opener, Abada doubled their lead just three minutes after entering the action.

The 25-year-old collected possession on the right side of the penalty area before firing a composed low finish across the Montreal goalkeeper.

Abada then grabbed his second after initiating an attacking move from the halfway line, racing forward to collect a return pass before finishing confidently to put the result beyond doubt.

The former Celtic fans favourite completed his remarkable treble just 18 minutes after his introduction, exchanging passes with a teammate before calmly slotting into the bottom corner.

His impressive cameo took his tally to nine goals and seven assists for the campaign, helping Charlotte secure their place in the MLS post-season.

Abada joined the American outfit from Celtic in a deal worth around £8million, having previously enjoyed a successful spell at the Hoops that included three Scottish Premiership titles.