Sep 13, 2025; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Whitecaps FC midfielder Thomas Muller (13) celebrates scoring a third goal during the second half against the Philadelphia Union at BC Place. Mandatory Credit: Simon Fearn-Imagn Images

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Thomas Muller Marks Birthday with Hattrick as Vancouver Whitecaps Crush Philadelphia 7-0

Thomas Muller celebrated his birthday in style with a hattrick as Vancouver Whitecaps humiliated Philadelphia Union 7-0 in MLS on Saturday night. Emmanuel Sabbi netted twice, while Mathias Laborda and Rayan Elloumi also got on the scoresheet in a statement performance at BC Place. Notably, it was the biggest win for Vancouver Whitecaps in their MLS history.

Muller, who joined the Whitecaps this summer after 17 glittering seasons with Bayern Munich, now has four goals and one assist in just three MLS outings. His first two against Philadelphia came from the penalty spot in the 30th and 45th minutes, before he completed his first MLS hattrick late in the 88th minute.

Biggest win in 'Caps MLS history. 🔥

Next up, we're back home for leg 2 of the TELUS #CanChamp semifinals vs. Forge FC 🎟️ https://t.co/k6YcTQLnvb #VWFC x @BMO pic.twitter.com/s0Jz8Osqw3
— X – Vancouver Whitecaps FC (@WhitecapsFC) September 14, 2025

Vancouver Whitecaps Seal Playoff Spot in Style

The win not only extended Vancouver’s hot run of form but also officially sealed their place in the MLS Cup playoffs, thanks to LAFC’s earlier 4-2 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes. Laborda kicked off the scoring in the 18th minute, heading home Sebastian Berhalter’s corner for his fourth goal of the season. Six minutes later, Sabbi doubled the lead after latching onto Ali Ahmed’s clever pass. Sabbi later grabbed his brace in the 61st minute, continuing his fine scoring form with his seventh strike of the campaign.

Also Read: Yoane Wissa Injury Update: Why Was Newcastle United Star’s Debut Delayed?

Rayan Elloumi, signed to a first-team contract just a day earlier, made it a dream debut with a composed finish in the 80th minute. He added Vancouver’s sixth of the night with his goal. Thomas Muller then capped off a perfect evening with his third goal. Sebastian Berhalter made three assists in the game to bring his season total to a team-high nine.

Jayden Nelson recored two assists, while Muller, Ahmed, and Giuseppe Bovalina also contributed with one apiece. The emphatic result marked a night to remember for Muller and Vancouver. It also showed Whitecaps’ credentials as serious playoff contenders heading into the business end of the MLS season.

Also Read: Rayan Ait-Nouri Injury Update: How Long Will Manchester City Be Without Their Defender?

Philadelphia Union

Thomas Muller

Vancouver Whitecaps

Abhinav Goel

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I am a soccer writer at The PlayOffs, covering everything from match analysis to transfer buzz and tactical deep dives. Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been more than just a sport to me—it’s been an obsession. Playing and watching the game from a young age fueled my passion, eventually leading me into the world of sports media and betting. Now, I get to analyze the sport I love and bring the latest updates to fans worldwide.