On Thursday, Lamine Yamal received a nomination for the FIFA Puskas Award, recognizing the best men’s goal from the previous season. Concurrently, Brazilian football legend Marta was shortlisted for the FIFA Marta Award, an accolade named in her honor that celebrates outstanding goals in women’s football. Both awards highlight exceptional individual performances from the past year.
Lamine Yamal, a promising talent from Barcelona, is recognized for his stunning goal against Espanyol in May. The young forward executed a trademark curling shot with his left foot after skillfully maneuvering across the defense from the right flank. This goal exemplifies Yamal’s technical ability and potential as a rising star in the sport.
Marta’s Brilliant Play
Marta earned her nomination for an impressive display while playing for Orlando Pride against Kansas City Current. In a dynamic play, she retrieved the ball from the center circle, sprinted past two defenders, rounded the goalkeeper, and finished into an empty net. This goal not only showcased her skill but also her enduring influence on women’s football, as she continues to inspire players around the world.
FIFA has announced a total of 11 nominees for each award. Fans will have the opportunity to vote online, and their votes will be combined with those of a panel of former international players. The voting deadline is set for December 3, 2025.
Notable Nominees
The list of nominees for the Puskas Award also features notable goals from other players. Among them is Declan Rice of Arsenal, recognized for his free kick against Real Madrid during the Champions League quarterfinals. Additionally, Lucas Ribeiro has been nominated for his remarkable solo effort from the center spot, scoring for Mamelodi Sundowns against Borussia Dortmund at the Club World Cup.
For the FIFA Marta Award, Ally Sentnor is nominated for her swerving shot representing the United States against Colombia in the SheBelieves Cup. Another contender is Vivianne Miedema, who received accolades for her floated shot for the Netherlands against Wales during the Women’s European Championship.
It remains uncertain if FIFA will present the awards during the men’s World Cup tournament draw, scheduled to take place on December 5, 2025, in Washington D.C., where U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to be in attendance. The anticipation surrounding these awards highlights the growing recognition of individual talent in football, bridging the gap between men’s and women’s competitions.
As fans eagerly await the results, the nominations serve as a testament to the extraordinary skill and passion that defines the beautiful game.
