Lamine Yamal Nominated for FIFA Puskas Award
Lamine Yamal, the young star from Barcelona, has received a nomination for the FIFA Puskas Award, which recognizes the best men’s goal from the previous season. This accolade comes on the heels of Brazilian football legend Marta being shortlisted for the FIFA Marta Award, an honor named after herself and designated for outstanding achievements in women’s football.
Noteworthy Goals
Yamal’s noteworthy goal, characterized by a skillful curling left-footed shot, occurred against Espanyol in May as he elegantly maneuvered across the defense from the right side of the pitch. On the women’s side, Marta showcased her remarkable skill during the NWSL playoff semifinals when she picked up the ball in the center circle, skillfully evaded two defenders, rounded the goalkeeper, and scored into an unattended net, propelling the Orlando Pride to victory over the Kansas City Current and into the NWSL championship.
Voting and Anticipation
FIFA has put forth 11 nominees for each award category, with the public and a panel of former international players conducting votes. Fans can cast their votes until December 3. There’s anticipation surrounding the potential announcement of the winners, which could coincide two days later with the men’s World Cup tournament draw in Washington, D.C. that will be attended by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Other Contenders
Other contenders for the men’s Puskas Award include Declan Rice from Arsenal, recognized for his stunning free kick against Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals, and Lucas Ribeiro, who executed an impressive solo goal for Mamelodi Sundowns against Borussia Dortmund in the Club World Cup. The Marta Award also features nominations for Ally Sentnor, whose powerful shot for the United States against Colombia in the SheBelieves Cup has garnered attention, along with Vivianne Miedema’s elegant floated shot for the Netherlands against Wales at the Women’s European Championship.
