Nigerian football star Paul Onuachu has made history as the first Nigerian to be shortlisted for the prestigious FIFA Puskás Award, which honors the most spectacular goal of the year.
The Southampton forward’s jaw-dropping flying backheel for Trabzonspor in the Turkish Süper Lig has captured global attention, securing him a spot among the 2024 nominees for this coveted accolade.
Onuachu’s extraordinary goal, scored in the 85th minute of a tense league match, showcased his ingenuity and athleticism. As Enis Destan delivered a precise cross from the left, Onuachu twisted mid-air to execute a gravity-defying backheel strike that left the goalkeeper stunned and secured a crucial victory for Trabzonspor.
Now back at Southampton after his loan spell, Onuachu faces fierce competition for the award. Other top contenders include Alejandro Garnacho’s stunning overhead kick for Manchester United and Mohammed Kudus’ dazzling solo goal for West Ham against Freiburg.
But Onuachu’s brilliance isn’t the only Nigerian presence at FIFA’s The Best Awards. Atalanta BC forward Ademola Lookman has been shortlisted for the Best Attacker award, while William Troost-Ekong, now with Al-Kholood, is vying for Best Defender.
Both players were instrumental in Nigeria’s impressive run to the Africa Cup of Nations final earlier this year, with each scoring three goals. Troost-Ekong’s stellar performance earned him the tournament’s Most Valuable Player title, while Lookman is widely regarded as a frontrunner for Africa’s Footballer of the Year.
