Puskas Award Winners: A Decade Of Dazzling Goals
Hey football fanatics! Let's dive into the glorious history of the FIFA Puskas Award, celebrating the most stunning goals scored in professional football since its inception in 2009. This award isn't just about finding the back of the net; it's about artistry, skill, and moments that leave us all speechless. We're talking about goals that defy gravity, showcase unbelievable technique, and are pure, unadulterated magic. So grab your popcorn, guys, because we're about to relive some of the most breathtaking strikes the beautiful game has ever witnessed. From bicycle kicks to long-range screamers, the Puskas Award has given us a treasure trove of unforgettable moments. Let's take a trip down memory lane and celebrate the players who have etched their names in footballing history with these phenomenal goals.
2009: Cristiano Ronaldo Sets the Bar High
Kicking off our journey in 2009, the very first Puskas Award winner was none other than Cristiano Ronaldo. And what a way to start! Ronaldo bagged the inaugural award for his absolutely thunderous strike from a whopping 40 yards out against FC Porto. This wasn't just a goal; it was a statement. The power, the precision, the audacity – it had it all. Playing for Manchester United at the time, Ronaldo unleashed a rocket that left the goalkeeper with absolutely no chance. It was a moment that perfectly encapsulated his raw talent and ambition, setting an incredibly high standard for future winners. This goal wasn't just about brute force; it demonstrated a keen awareness of the goalkeeper's position and a willingness to attempt the extraordinary. The sheer distance from which he scored speaks volumes about his confidence and technique. Many players would hesitate to even try such a shot, but Ronaldo, with his unparalleled self-belief, decided to go for it, and the result was pure footballing poetry. It’s the kind of goal that replays in your mind long after the final whistle, a true testament to individual brilliance. The roar of the crowd, the stunned silence of the opposition, and the sheer jubilation of his teammates all added to the legend of this strike. It was a defining moment in the early career of a player who would go on to redefine goal-scoring records, and it was the perfect opening chapter for the Puskas Award. The Puskas Award was born out of a desire to recognize not just the best players, but the most spectacular moments, and Ronaldo's 2009 goal was a flawless embodiment of that vision. It reminded everyone that football, at its best, is about moments of pure, unadulterated genius that transcend the ordinary. This goal wasn't just a great strike; it was a landmark event, establishing the Puskas Award as a prestigious accolade for the most sensational goals in the sport.
2010: Hamsik's Solo Masterpiece
Fast forward to 2010, and the Puskas Award graced the feet of Marek Hamsik. This Slovakian midfielder, playing for Napoli, scored a goal that was a masterclass in individual skill and dribbling. Against Sampdoria, Hamsik weaved his way through the defense with mesmerizing footwork, leaving defenders trailing in his wake before coolly slotting the ball home. It was a solo effort that showcased his incredible close control and vision. This goal wasn't just about getting past a few players; it was about timing, agility, and making the difficult look effortless. He navigated a crowded penalty area with the grace of a dancer, making sharp turns and quick changes of direction that bamboozled his opponents. Each touch was deliberate, each movement calculated, leading to a perfectly executed finish. It was a moment where individual brilliance shone through, highlighting Hamsik's status as a truly gifted player. The goal was a culmination of skill, determination, and composure, demonstrating that sometimes, one player can indeed make the difference. It underscored the Puskas Award's commitment to recognizing not just long-range power, but also intricate skill and breathtaking individual runs. This strike solidified Hamsik's place in footballing folklore, proving that a moment of magic can come from anywhere on the pitch and from any player. It was a goal that deservedly earned its place in the history books, inspiring aspiring midfielders everywhere to hone their dribbling skills and look for opportunities to create something special. The beauty of this goal lay in its simplicity and effectiveness – a direct assault on the opposition's goal, characterized by relentless dribbling and a clinical finish. It was a reminder of the sheer joy and excitement that individual skill can bring to the game, and a worthy winner of the Puskas Award.
2011: Neymar's Dazzling Dribble
In 2011, the award went to a young Brazilian prodigy who was already setting the world alight: Neymar. Playing for Santos against Flamengo, Neymar produced a goal that was pure samba football. He received the ball, left a trail of defenders in his dust with a series of electrifying dribbles, and then calmly finished past the goalkeeper. It was a display of flair, speed, and skill that had fans on their feet. This goal was a perfect illustration of Neymar's electrifying style – a blend of creativity, trickery, and clinical finishing. He danced through the opposition, making them look static with his nimble footwork and explosive acceleration. The goal wasn't just about beating players; it was about the sheer joy and entertainment he brought to the pitch, embodying the spirit of Brazilian football. It was a performance that deservedly earned him the Puskas Award and announced his arrival on the global stage in spectacular fashion. This strike was a vibrant explosion of individual talent, showcasing the unpredictable and dazzling nature of attacking football. It was a goal that made you smile, a goal that made you gasp, and a goal that perfectly captured the essence of what the Puskas Award aims to celebrate. The Puskas Award committee clearly recognized the sheer artistry involved, the breathtaking audacity, and the electrifying execution of this incredible solo effort. Neymar's 2011 goal became an instant classic, a benchmark for young players dreaming of achieving similar feats, and a shining example of why the Puskas Award is so beloved by football fans worldwide. It cemented his reputation as a generational talent, capable of producing moments of magic that define an era.
2012: Miroslav Stoch's Volley Wonder
2012 brought us a goal that was simply out of this world, courtesy of Miroslav Stoch. Playing for Fenerbahce against Genclerbirligi, Stoch unleashed a sensational volley from outside the box that rocketed into the top corner. The sheer power and accuracy of the strike were astounding. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated brilliance, a goal that left everyone watching in awe. This goal was a testament to technique, timing, and the courage to attempt such a spectacular shot. The ball was dropping, and Stoch met it with a perfect connection, sending it flying past the helpless goalkeeper. It was a strike that would grace any highlight reel, a true Puskas Award-worthy moment. The sheer physics involved in such a clean connection, generating that much power and accuracy from such a distance, is mind-boggling. It demonstrated Stoch's exceptional ball-striking ability and his knack for producing the spectacular. This goal wasn't just a goal; it was a masterpiece of aerial ball control and aggressive finishing. It highlighted the Puskas Award's appreciation for goals that combine power, technique, and a touch of the spectacular. Stoch's volley became an instant legend, a symbol of what happens when skill, timing, and audacious ambition collide on the football pitch. It was a goal that resonated with fans globally, a pure moment of joy and wonder that perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the Puskas Award. The precision with which he struck the ball, making clean contact with the sweet spot, resulted in a trajectory that was unstoppable. This goal is a prime example of why the Puskas Award exists – to honor those moments of breathtaking individual brilliance that etch themselves into the memory of football history.
2013: Zlatan Ibrahimović's Overhead Kick Extravaganza
In 2013, the Puskas Award recognized a moment of sheer acrobatic genius from none other than Zlatan Ibrahimović. Playing for Paris Saint-Germain against his former club Anderlecht, Zlatan scored an unbelievable overhead kick from about 30 yards out. It was a goal of such power, distance, and audacity that it left the football world stunned. This wasn't just any overhead kick; it was a thunderbolt that flew into the net with venom. The sheer athleticism required to connect with the ball in such a manner, from that distance, is almost superhuman. It showcased Zlatan's unique blend of power, technique, and theatrical flair. This goal was a fitting reward for a player who has consistently produced moments of individual brilliance throughout his illustrious career. The audacity to even attempt such a strike, let alone execute it perfectly, speaks volumes about Zlatan's confidence and extraordinary talent. It was a moment that perfectly encapsulated his larger-than-life persona and his ability to produce the spectacular on demand. The Puskas Award committee recognized the sheer audacity, power, and technical brilliance of this truly unforgettable strike. Zlatan's overhead kick became an instant legend, a symbol of what happens when a once-in-a-generation talent decides to push the boundaries of what's possible on a football pitch. It was a goal that had everyone talking, a moment of pure sporting theatre that perfectly embodied the spirit of the Puskas Award. The sheer force and accuracy of the connection, turning his entire body to generate maximum velocity, made it an unstoppable projectile. This goal stands as a monumental achievement, a testament to Zlatan's unparalleled skill and his reputation as one of football's most charismatic and gifted players, truly deserving of the Puskas Award.
2014: James RodrĂguez's World Cup Wonder
2014 was a World Cup year, and it produced a Puskas Award winner in James RodrĂguez. Representing Colombia against Uruguay, James scored a stunning chest-and-volley goal that left the stadium in raptures. Receiving a long, lofted pass, he controlled it beautifully on his chest before unleashing a ferocious left-footed volley into the top corner. It was a moment of pure class and exquisite technique. This goal showcased James's incredible vision, technique, and composure under pressure. The way he cushioned the ball and then struck it with such power and accuracy was simply breathtaking. It was a goal that perfectly encapsulated the magic of the World Cup and the brilliance of individual talent. This strike was a beautiful blend of skill, technique, and execution, demonstrating why James was one of the most exciting young talents in the game. The Puskas Award committee clearly recognized the artistry and technical perfection of this goal. James's World Cup wonder goal became an instant classic, a highlight that symbolized the excitement and drama of international football. It was a moment of individual brilliance that deservedly earned its place in the Puskas Award history books, a testament to his sublime skill and his ability to perform on the biggest stage. The fluidity of the motion, from controlling the ball with his chest to the powerful, accurate volley, was a masterclass in technique. This goal is a perfect illustration of why the Puskas Award is so special, celebrating moments of extraordinary skill and beauty in the sport.
2015: Wendell Lira's Bicycle Kick Brilliance
In 2015, the Puskas Award went to Wendell Lira, a player who perhaps wasn't a household name, but who scored a goal that was truly unforgettable. Playing for Goianésia against Atlético Goianiense, Lira scored a spectacular bicycle kick that defied gravity. The ball looped up, and Lira met it with an acrobatic flourish, sending it flying into the back of the net. It was a moment of pure athleticism and incredible technique. This goal was a testament to skill, timing, and the sheer audacity to attempt such a difficult maneuver. The way Lira contorted his body to get the perfect connection on the ball was simply breathtaking. It proved that spectacular goals can come from any league and any player, and the Puskas Award is all about celebrating that magic. This goal was a celebration of the unpredictable and spectacular nature of football, a moment that brought joy and wonder to fans everywhere. The Puskas Award committee acknowledged the sheer athleticism and technical brilliance of this incredible strike, proving that dreams can come true. Wendell Lira's bicycle kick became an instant legend, a symbol of the beauty and excitement that football can offer, and a worthy winner of the Puskas Award. It highlighted the universal appeal of a perfectly executed piece of skill, regardless of the stature of the player or the league. The precision of the airborne strike, connecting with the ball at its apex and directing it with such power and accuracy, was a feat of pure sporting artistry. It’s a goal that proves that moments of magic can emerge from the most unexpected places, truly embodying the spirit of the Puskas Award.
2016: Mohd Faiz Subri's Curveball Wonder
2016 delivered a Puskas Award winner that defied the laws of physics: Mohd Faiz Subri. Playing for Penang FA against Pahang, Subri scored from a free-kick that curved impossibly towards the goal, leaving the goalkeeper completely bewildered. The ball seemed to bend in mid-air before finding the back of the net. This goal was a masterclass in spin and trajectory, a truly mesmerizing strike. The sheer amount of curve on the ball was astonishing, making it almost impossible to predict its path. It was a moment of pure genius and a testament to Subri's unique skill. This goal was a highlight of the year, showcasing the incredible variety of stunning goals that can be scored in football. The Puskas Award committee clearly recognized the extraordinary physics and skill involved in this unbelievable free-kick. Mohd Faiz Subri's free-kick became an instant classic, a goal that left everyone asking, "How did he do that?" It was a moment of pure magic that perfectly encapsulated the wonder and unpredictability of the beautiful game, and a truly deserving winner of the Puskas Award. The ability to impart such a prodigious amount of swerve on the ball, making it deviate so dramatically from a straight line, is a rare and captivating skill. This goal is a perfect example of why the Puskas Award resonates so deeply with fans – it celebrates the moments that make us question reality and marvel at human ability. It's a testament to the fact that the beautiful game can produce moments of astounding beauty and bewildering skill from all corners of the globe.
2017: Olivier Giroud's Scorpion Kick Showstopper
In 2017, the Puskas Award honored a moment of pure acrobatic brilliance from Olivier Giroud. Playing for Arsenal against Crystal Palace, Giroud scored a spectacular scorpion kick that left fans and pundits alike speechless. As a cross came in, Giroud, with his back to goal, instinctively launched himself into the air, contorting his body to meet the ball with his heel, sending it looping over the goalkeeper and into the net. It was a goal of incredible athleticism, timing, and audacity. This goal was a breathtaking display of skill and imagination, a move that many players wouldn't even dare to attempt. The sheer coordination and flexibility required to execute such a kick are remarkable. It was a moment that perfectly encapsulated Giroud's ability to produce the extraordinary. The Puskas Award committee recognized the sheer audacity, athleticism, and unique execution of this stunning strike. Olivier Giroud's scorpion kick became an instant icon, a goal that perfectly illustrated the Puskas Award's dedication to celebrating the most spectacular and imaginative goals in football. It was a moment of pure sporting theatre that cemented his place in footballing history. The fact that he performed such a complex maneuver with such apparent ease and precision is a testament to his exceptional athleticism and his incredible instinct for goal-scoring. This goal is a prime example of the kind of breathtaking skill and creativity that the Puskas Award seeks to highlight, proving that the beautiful game is capable of producing moments of unbelievable artistry.
2018: Mohamed Salah's Merseyside Derby Masterpiece
2018 saw Mohamed Salah claim the Puskas Award for a truly sublime goal he scored for Liverpool against Everton. In a Merseyside derby clash, Salah cut inside from the right flank, unleashing a wicked curling shot with his left foot that found the top corner of the net. It was a goal that showcased his incredible dribbling ability, vision, and lethal finishing. This goal was a blend of individual brilliance and technical perfection. Salah weaved past defenders, creating space for himself before unleashing a shot that was both powerful and precise. It was a moment that ignited the passion of the fans and demonstrated why he is considered one of the world's best forwards. The Puskas Award committee recognized the quality, flair, and importance of this goal in such a high-stakes fixture. Mohamed Salah's derby day goal became a symbol of his electrifying form and his ability to produce magic on the biggest stage. It was a goal that truly deserved the acclaim and recognition it received. The curl and dip on the shot were exquisite, leaving the goalkeeper with absolutely no chance of making a save. This goal exemplifies the kind of individual skill and decisive impact that the Puskas Award aims to celebrate, showcasing a player at the peak of his powers. It's a goal that perfectly encapsulates the beauty and excitement of derby matches, where individual brilliance can often be the deciding factor.
2019: Daniel Zsori's Stunning Bicycle Kick
Concluding our look at the winners up to 2019, the Puskas Award in 2019 went to Daniel Zsori. Playing for Debrecen against Ferencváros, Zsori scored a remarkable bicycle kick in the dying moments of the match to secure a dramatic victory. The ball was played into the box, and Zsori, with incredible agility and technique, executed a perfect overhead kick that flew into the net. This goal was a moment of pure youthful exuberance and incredible skill, a dramatic winner that captured the imagination. It was a testament to his bravery and his ability to perform under pressure. The goal was not only technically brilliant but also incredibly impactful due to its timing and importance in the game. The Puskas Award committee acknowledged the sheer athleticism, technique, and the dramatic context of this sensational strike. Daniel Zsori's late bicycle kick became a symbol of hope and the potential for young players to produce extraordinary moments. It was a fitting way to cap off a decade of incredible goals, showcasing the enduring magic and unpredictability of the beautiful game. The sheer audacity and perfect execution of the bicycle kick in such a crucial moment highlight the raw talent and potential of this young player. This goal is a perfect example of why the Puskas Award continues to be a fan favorite, celebrating those moments of pure, unadulterated skill and passion that define football.
These winners represent just a fraction of the incredible talent and artistry that the Puskas Award has celebrated. Each goal is a story, a moment of magic that reminds us why we love this game. Which one is your favorite, guys? Let us know in the comments!
