Level with Messi! Wessam Abou Ali climbs MLS scoring charts after Atlanta heroics

World 05 April 2026 at 14:15

Khaled Hegazy

News Editor

Palestinian striker Wessam Abou Ali delivered standout performance scoring twice to lead Columbus Crew to 3-1 win over Atlanta United in Matchday 6 of the MLS season.

The former Al Ahly forward struck twice early in second half underlining his growing influence in the United States.

Two goals in five minute change the game

After balanced first half, Abou Ali took control of the match immediately after the break. He opened the scoring in the 48 minute meeting a cross inside the box with a precise header that left the goalkeeper with no chance.

Five minute later, he produced a moment of individual brilliance. Receiving the ball outside the area, Abou Ali unleashed a powerful shot into the top corner doubling Columbus Crew’s lead and shifting the momentum firmly in his team’s favour.

Columbus went on to secure 3-1 victory, a result that gives them much needed boost early in the campaign.

Strong start to the season

Abou Ali’s double takes his tally to 5 goal in 6 MLS match, along with one assist highlighting his immediate impact since arriving in the league.

He now sits third in the MLS scoring charts, just two goal behind leaders Sam Surridge of Nashville and Petar Musa of FC Dallas both on seven goal.

Notably Abou Ali is level on five goal with Inter Miami star Lionel Messi as well as several other attacking names across the league .. a clear sign of his strong start.

Growing influence since MLS move

Since joining Columbus Crew from Al Ahly in the summer of 2025 for reported fee of $7.5 million, Abou Ali has quickly established himself as a key figure.

Across all competitions, he has now recorded 8 goal and 2 assist in 11 appearances underlining his consistency and attacking threat.

Related teams and leagues

Columbus Crew

Al Ahly SC

Palestine