Didier Drogba scored a hat-trick in his first MLS start, as his new team Montreal Impact defeated Chicago Fire 4-3 on Sunday.
The former Chelsea striker, signed with Impact in July this year and was not fit to play until August 22.
He made his debut as a substitute and was out again with a toe problem, but the Ivorian made instant impact, on his full debut.
He scored his first in the 27th minute, converting Nigel Reo-Coker’s cross, Fire levelled nine minutes later through Jeff Larentowicz from the penalty spit, but Wandrille Lefevre restored Impact’s lead.
Just two minutes later, Gilberto equalized again for Fire, who then took the lead through Kennedy Igboananike in the 59th minute. But Drogba had the final word, scoring twice in the 61st and 65th minute.
Speaking after the game, he said: “The manager asked me how I was feeling and I was a bit tired at the end; I’m working hard to get back to fitness.
“It’s only my second real week of work after two months of nothing so it’s a bit difficult at the end, but I’m quite happy with my physical performance today.”
Impact interim coach Mauro Biello said: “What can I say; It was an exceptional performance. He’s someone who’s really engaged. He’s won everywhere. He came here with a great desire to win and that’s what we saw tonight.”
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