Nigerian football is basking in global recognition as two of its finest stars, Paul Onuachu and Asisat Oshoala, received prestigious FIFA nominations.
Onuachu has been shortlisted for the coveted FIFA Puskas Award, while Oshoala is in contention for the Marta Award, the women's equivalent, making Nigeria the only African nation with nominations in both categories.
Onuachu’s FIFA Puskas-worthy wonder goal
Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu delivered a moment of pure magic in Trabzonspor's 2-1 victory over Konyaspor in the Turkish Super Lig.
The towering forward left fans and pundits alike in awe with his acrobatic scorpion kick that turned an otherwise scrappy attack into a masterpiece.
With just minutes remaining, a hopeful cross floated into the six-yard box amid defensive chaos.
Onuachu, using his incredible instincts, twisted his massive frame and executed an outrageous flick with the back of his heel.
The ball soared with precision, curling past a stranded goalkeeper and nestling into the net.
The stadium erupted, as did social media, marking the goal as one of the most audacious finishes in football this year.
Oshoala’s FIFA Marta Award-worthy bicycle kick
On the women’s front, Super Falcons star Asisat Oshoala has earned a well-deserved Marta Award nomination for her sensational goal for Barcelona Femeni against Benfica in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
In a moment of unrivalled athleticism and flair, Oshoala timed her run perfectly to meet a cross from the right wing.
Positioned goal-side of her defender, she launched herself into the air, defying gravity to execute a flawless bicycle kick.
Her strike arrowed into the top corner, leaving Benfica goalkeeper Lena Pauels helpless and the crowd in awe.
These nominations, alongside Ademola Lookman and William Troost-Ekong in other categories, shows Nigeria’s growing influence on the global football stage.
Fans have until December 10, 2024, to cast their votes on FIFA's website.
