VIDEO: Christian Benteke is the hat-trick hero for D.C. United! Ex-Liverpool star scores stupendous trio of goals in win over New England Revolution

To open te scoring, the Belgian striker leapt into the air off a brilliant cross from Pedro Santos, smashing the ball with his head. Revolution goalkeeper Henrich Ravas, did however, initially save the shot from going in - or so he thought. After a brief VAR review, the center official gave the goal to the DC striker in the 36th minute.

He followed it up with two second half goals, first tapping in from close range off a deflection and then adding his third for the hat-trick in stoppage-time off another brilliant header.

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The former Liverpool striker, who also crafted his trade in the Premier League with Crystal Palace, net 14 goals for DC last season in his first full campaign with the club. He'll be looking to not only better that in 2024, but help lead his squad into the playoffs for the first time since 2019.

Just one game into the campaign, though, he's already net nearly one-fourth of his total from 2023. He's off to a flying start after leading DC to a 3-1 victory.

The club based out of the United States capital will travel coast-to-coast in week two, when they take on the Portland Timbers. They'll be looking to earn their first road points of the season, while Benteke will be looking to add to his account.