Puskas Award 2025 Nominees: Yamal and Rice Lead the Race

Puskas Award 2025 nominees have been officially revealed, with Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal and Arsenal’s midfield maestro Declan Rice capturing the spotlight among a stellar group of contenders vying for football’s most spectacular goal honour.

Puskas Award 2025 Nominees: Global Stars Compete for Goal of the Year

On Thursday, FIFA announced the shortlist for the 2025 Puskas Award, which recognises the most breathtaking goal scored between 11 August 2024 and 2 August 2025. This prestigious accolade, named in tribute to Real Madrid legend Ferenc Puskas, once again gathers a line-up of football’s brightest stars and emerging talents.

Yamal’s Masterclass for Barcelona Stuns Football World

Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal has caught the eyes of fans worldwide with his nomination. His unforgettable left-footed curler against Espanyol not only mesmerised viewers but also played a pivotal role in securing the league title for Barcelona. Cutting inside from the right, the teenager showcased composure and technical prowess beyond his years, curling the ball into the far top corner—a moment instantly etched in LaLiga folklore.

Declan Rice’s Free Kick Heroics for Arsenal

Arsenal’s Declan Rice finds himself among the Puskas Award 2025 nominees for a sensational free kick that stunned Real Madrid and the Champions League audience. In the quarter-finals, Rice stepped up from a difficult angle and delivered a thunderous strike into the top corner, helping Arsenal secure a commanding 3-0 lead in the first leg. Reflecting on the goal, Rice said, “When you score a goal, it’s the best feeling in the world… I’m happy I took it because it was magic.”

Full List of FIFA Puskas Award 2025 Nominees

• Alerrandro | Vitoria v. Cruzeiro | 19 August 2024
• Alessandro Deiola | Cagliari v. Venezia | 18 May 2025
• Pedro de la Vega | Cruz Azul v. Seattle Sounders | 31 July 2025
• Santiago Montiel | Independiente v. Independiente Rivadavia | 11 May 2025
• Amr Nasser | Al Ahly v. Pharco | 17 April 2025
• Carlos Orrantía | Querétaro v. Atlas | 16 April 2025
• Lucas Ribeiro | Mamelodi Sundowns v. Borussia Dortmund | 21 June 2025
• Declan Rice | Arsenal v. Real Madrid | 8 April 2025
• Rizky Ridho | Persija Jakarta v. Arema | 9 March 2025
• Kévin Rodrigues | Kasımpaşa v. Rizespor | 9 February 2025
• Lamine Yamal | Espanyol v. Barcelona | 15 May 2025

Puskas Award 2025 Nominees: Women’s List Also Shines

FIFA also released the shortlist for the Marta Award, honouring the best goals in women’s football. Notables include Mariona Caldentey, Marta, and Vivianne Miedema, reinforcing the global appeal and growing competitiveness of women’s football.

The Legacy of the Puskas Award

Since its inception in 2009, the Puskas Award has celebrated remarkable goals that live long in football memory. Cristiano Ronaldo’s long-range strike for Manchester United, Neymar’s slaloming solo goal for Santos, and Mohamed Salah’s dazzling solo run against Everton have all claimed the honour, reminding fans of the magical moments football can produce.

How the Winner is Chosen

Fans are now encouraged to view and vote for their favourite strike on FIFA.com. The process combines public voting with the insights of a panel of FIFA Legends, ensuring a fair and prestigious selection for the next Puskas Award winner.

What Makes a Puskas-Worthy Goal?

A Puskas Award-winning goal is more than just a strike—it’s a blend of technique, creativity, difficulty, and the emotional resonance it brings to fans. This year’s nominees once again show that football remains an art form, with players pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on the pitch.

For More News and Football Insights

Looking ahead, the race for the Puskas Award 2025 nominees is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent years. The combination of youthful exuberance represented by Lamine Yamal and the seasoned brilliance of Declan Rice is a testament to the evolving nature of the game. Visit for more news and updates as we approach the The Best FIFA Football Awards 2025.

Opinion: Why This Year’s Puskas Shortlist Raises the Bar

This year’s Puskas Award 2025 nominees reflect the growing diversity and quality in world football. With Lamine Yamal setting new standards for young talents and Declan Rice redefining midfield goal-scoring, the award celebrates not only individual brilliance but also the global evolution of the sport. Their dazzling goals are a reminder that inspiration can come from anywhere, and fans are the real winners as football’s spectacle reaches new heights.