Alhassan Yusuf’s hat-trick earns 9.7 rating in New England Revolution win

Alhassan Yusuf scored a superb hat-trick as New England Revolution returned to winning ways with a commanding 3-0 victory over DC United in Major League Soccer on Thursday morning.

The Nigeria midfielder was the outstanding player at the stadium, earning a 9.7 rating from FotMob after a performance that combined decisive attacking play with an impressive defensive contribution.

Yusuf struck twice before half-time and completed his treble shortly after the hour mark, helping New England end a difficult run of results. The Revolution had gone three matches without a win and lost their previous two games before facing DC United.

The home side were also looking to recover from a poor spell, having failed to win either of their past two matches. However, it was the visitors who made the breakthrough.

Jack Harrison sent a cross towards the far post, where Peyton Miller headed the ball back across the face of goal. Yusuf reacted fastest, arriving to meet it with a header that gave New England the lead.

The 26-year-old doubled the advantage just before the interval, combining with Harrison again. This time, Yusuf timed his run to the far post and turned another Harrison delivery into the net, sending the Revolution into half-time with a comfortable two-goal lead.

Yusuf completed his hat-trick in the second half after once more linking up with Harrison. He headed the ball home to score his second headed goal of the match and secure a comprehensive victory for New England Revolution.

The treble made Yusuf the first New England Revolution player to score three goals in a match since Kei Kamara achieved the feat in September 2017. He also became only the eighth player in the club’s history to score a hat-trick in an MLS regular-season game.

His three goals took his season total to five, while he has also provided two assists. That means the campaign is already the best of Yusuf’s career in terms of goal contributions.

FotMob’s 9.7 rating reflected his influence throughout the match. Yusuf registered a game-high five shots and completed 96% of his passes, underlining his efficiency in possession as well as his threat in the final third.

The Super Eagles midfielder also made four defensive contributions and recovered the ball six times. His showing was therefore about more than his goals, with Yusuf providing energy and control in midfield while helping New England secure maximum points.

The result moved the Revolution back into winning form and kept them in contention for a playoff place after their recent run of disappointing results.

Yusuf’s display could also strengthen his prospects of another Nigeria call-up. Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is preparing for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, which begin next month, with Nigeria aiming to make a strong start as they pursue the only automatic qualification place from Group L.

The midfielder’s latest performance follows an impressive showing for Nigeria against Jamaica in the final of the 2026 Unity Cup. Yusuf scored twice in that match as the Super Eagles claimed a 3-0 victory.

With Nigeria seeking additional energy and fresh legs in midfield, Yusuf offers qualities that extend beyond providing stability in the centre of the pitch.

He will now look to maintain his form for New England Revolution when they play New York City FC on Sunday night.