Incredible goals from across the footballing world are in the spotlight! FIFA has unveiled the nominees for the prestigious Puskas and Marta Awards, celebrating the most spectacular goals scored over the past year. This year's list features a fascinating mix of established stars and underdog heroes, promising a thrilling competition.
The Marta Award, honoring the legendary Brazilian player, recognizes the best goals in women's football. Among the nominees is Brentford Women's forward, Ashley Cheatley, alongside football icons. Her stunning overhead kick in the Women's FA Cup is up for the award. Imagine the scene: Cheatley, at 30 years old, facing Ascot United in November 2024, perfectly controlling a tricky pass, flicking the ball up, and executing an acrobatic finish with her back to the goal! It's a goal that would make anyone's jaw drop.
This incredible feat places Cheatley, who plays in the fifth tier of English women's football, in the company of the greats, including Marta herself and Lizbeth Ovalle, the most expensive player in women's football history. Marta, a 39-year-old Brazilian forward, is nominated for a mesmerizing solo goal in the US National Women's Soccer League. She started from the center circle, faking a shot to outmaneuver two defenders simultaneously before gracefully rounding the goalkeeper. Other contenders include Manchester City's Khadija Shaw and Mariona Caldentey of Arsenal. And let's not forget Ovalle's goal for Tigres in the Mexican Liga MX Femenil, a mid-air twist resulting in a breathtaking backheeled finish.
The Puskas Award, which recognizes the best goals in men's football, has its own share of sensational contenders. Declan Rice, Arsenal's midfielder, and Barcelona's winger, Lamine Yamal, are among the high-profile nominees. Rice's nomination comes from one of his two free-kick goals against Real Madrid in last season's Champions League – a blistering shot from 30 yards that found the top corner. Yamal's nomination is for his curling strike against Espanyol in May.
But here's where it gets controversial... The competition also includes bicycle kicks from Alerrandro of Vitoria in Brazil's Serie A and Santiago Montiel of Independiente in Argentina's Primera Division. Additionally, Carlos Orrantia, an Atlas full-back, is a contender for his fantastic volley against Queretaro in the Mexican Liga MX. He controlled a punch from the goalkeeper, flicked the ball over a defender, set himself with his knee, and then unleashed a thunderous strike from 25 yards.
What makes a goal truly 'the best'? All goals scored between August 11, 2024, and August 2, 2025, were eligible for the awards. The winners will be decided by a combination of fan votes and a panel of FIFA legends.
What do you think? Which goal is your favorite? Do you agree with the nominations? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
