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Barcelona alumni and Nigerian international Asisat Oshoala has made history as one of the eleven nominees for the inaugural FIFA Marta Award, which will be presented at The Best FIFA Football Awards 2024 in January 2025.
This new accolade, named after Brazilian legend Marta, will recognize the best goal in women’s football over the past year.
Oshoala’s nomination comes after her unforgettable bicycle kick for Barcelona in their UEFA Women’s Champions League match against Benfica on November 14, 2023.
After coming off the bench in the 60th minute, the Nigerian forward scored just 40 seconds later with a stunning acrobatic effort that left goalkeeper Lena Pauels with no chance.
The Marta Award celebrates the most spectacular goals from the qualifying period, spanning from August 21, 2023, to August 10, 2024.
In addition to Oshoala, the nominees include top players from around the world:
Beth Mead (Arsenal) – Goal against West Ham United, November 26, 2023
Delphine Cascarino (Lyon)
Marina Hegering (Bayern Munich)
Sakina Karchaoui (Paris Saint-Germain)
Paulina Krumbiegel (Bayer Leverkusen)
Marta (Orlando Pride)
Nina Matejic (Juventus)
Giuseppina Moraca (Roma)
Mayra Pelayo (Club América)
Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit)
Oshoala, the reigning African Footballer of the Year, will be competing with some of the world’s best for the inaugural Marta Award, adding another milestone to her illustrious career.
As the first-ever recipient of this award, she has the chance to carve her name into football history, while also representing Nigeria on the global stage.
Additionally, Oshoala’s company, Paul Onuachu, is nominated for the FIFA Puskás Award, which celebrates the best goal in men’s football.
The winner will be revealed at The Best FIFA Football Awards 2024 in Paris, set to take place on January 2025.
