Idan Toklomati scored his first career MLS hat trick to bring his season total to 11 goals and Charlotte FC won their ninth consecutive MLS game, defeating Lionel Messi and visiting Inter Miami 2-0 on Saturday night.

Reigning MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Kristijan Kahlina made five saves to preserve his 10th clean sheet, including denying Messi's penalty in the 32nd minute when the match was still scoreless.

Wilfried Zaha provided an assist and earned a late penalty after Miami defender Tomas Aviles was sent off in the 79th minute for a second booking.

That was enough for The Crown (17-11-2, 53 points) to earn a result that could see them finish the night only four points behind Eastern Conference leaders Philadelphia.

It also continued a streak that ties an MLS record since the league s

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