Super Eagles watch: Why Alhassan Yusuf earned 9.7 rating in New England Revs win over DC United

Super Eagles midfielder Alhassan Yusuf produced a remarkable performance to inspire New England Revolution to a comfortable 3-0 win over DC United in Major League Soccer on Thursday morning, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 26-year-old scored a stunning hat-trick, becoming the first New England Revolution player to achieve the feat since Kei Kamara in September 2017.

Yusuf scored twice in the first half before completing his treble just after the hour mark to seal a comprehensive victory for the Revolution, who bounced back to winning ways after a difficult run of form.

Alhassan Yusuf heads the ball in a Major League Soccer game between the New England Revolution and Atlanta United. Copyright: xxImagoxBurtxGranofskyx

DC United vs New England Revolution: What happened?

DC United hosted the Revolution hoping to end a two-game winless run, while the visitors were also desperate for a victory after going three games without a win and losing their previous two matches.

However, it was New England who broke the deadlock, with Yusuf on hand to score a superb header.

Jack Harrison delivered a cross towards the far post, where Peyton Miller headed the ball back across goal. Yusuf reacted quickly, running onto the ball before heading it into the net to give the Revolution the lead.

The Super Eagles midfielder doubled his side's advantage on the stroke of halftime, linking up with Harrison once again. Yusuf arrived at the far post at the right time to tap home Harrison's cross and send New England into the break with a comfortable two-goal lead.

Nigeria midfielder Alhassan Yusuf celebrates with teammates. Copyright: xToyinxOshodixImago

He completed his hat-trick in the second half, once again combining with Harrison before heading the ball into the net for his second headed goal of the game.

The win moved New England back to winning ways and kept them in the race for a playoff spot after their poor run of form.

Super Eagles player rating: Yusuf delivers sensational hat-trick

Alhassan Yusuf produced a superb hat-trick to help the Revolution secure a dominant victory on their return to winning ways.

His three goals also made him only the eighth player in the history of the Revolution to score a hat-trick in an MLS regular-season match. The performance took Yusuf's tally for the season to five goals and two assists, making it his best-ever season for goal contributions in his career.

Nigeria midfielder Alhassan Yusuf. Copyright: xToyinxOshodixImago

The 26-year-old was outstanding throughout the encounter and deservedly earned a 9.7 rating according to Fotmob, after his man-of-the-match display.

Yusuf also recorded the most shots in the game with five and completed an impressive 96% of his passes.

In addition to his attacking contribution, the Super Eagles midfielder made four defensive contributions and recorded six recoveries.

Most importantly, he scored all three goals that handed his team maximum points in a commanding display.

Huge boost for Chelle ahead of 2027 AFCON qualifiers

Yusuf's performance could also prove to be a timely boost for Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The qualifiers will begin next month, with Nigeria looking to make a strong start as they aim to secure the only automatic qualification spot from Group L.

Yusuf's latest display should strengthen his case for another call-up, particularly after his impressive performance against Jamaica in the final of the 2026 Unity Cup, where he scored twice to help Nigeria secure a 3-0 victory.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle. Copyright: xshengolpixsxImago

With the Super Eagles needing fresh legs and more energy in midfield, Yusuf offers plenty of qualities beyond simply providing stability in the middle of the pitch.

Yusuf will now hope to continue his impressive form for the Revolution when they face New York City FC on Sunday night.