FIFA’s annual Best Awards ceremony on Tuesday honored two incredible goals from the past season. Lizbeth Ovalle’s stunning scorpion kick and Santiago Montiel’s long-distance overhead strike were recognized with the prestigious Marta Award and Puskas Award, respectively, for their outstanding goals. Fans around the world voted for these memorable moments, marking a significant achievement for both players in the world of football.
Ovalle’s Scorpion Kick Wins the Marta Award
Lizbeth Ovalle, who made history as the most expensive player in women’s football, earned the Marta Award for her incredible scorpion kick. Playing for Tigres in Mexico’s top league against Guadalajara, Ovalle executed the acrobatic shot with her back to the goal, flicking the ball over her head with her heels. This breathtaking goal, scored in a midair leap, left fans in awe.
La locura de gol de @lizbethovalle7.
— Club Tigres Femenil 🐯 (@TigresFemenil) March 4, 2025
Hey @fifacom_es te tenemos una nominada al premio Puskás. pic.twitter.com/TQIcKXK499
Named after Brazil’s legendary Marta, the women’s award celebrates the best goal in women’s football. Ovalle’s remarkable performance secured her the honor, and her achievement is even more significant considering Marta, who is now Ovalle’s teammate at Orlando Pride, won the award last year and also had a goal nominated for this year’s edition.
Montiel’s Overhead Kick Claims the Puskas Award
Santiago Montiel’s unforgettable goal for Independiente in Argentina’s Primera Division also captured FIFA’s attention, earning him the coveted Puskas Award for the best men’s goal. In an intense match against Independiente Rivadavia, Montiel’s leaping overhead kick from 22 meters (yards) out saw him rise above defenders to meet a bouncing ball. His incredible technique and precision in this stunning strike led to it being voted the best men’s goal of the year.
Record Transfers and Prestigious Recognition
Ovalle, also known by her nickname Jacquie, made waves in the football world when she transferred for a women’s world-record fee of $1.5 million to join Orlando Pride from Tigres in August. This move further solidified her standing as one of the top talents in the sport. Meanwhile, Montiel’s Puskas-winning goal will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most spectacular moments in men’s football for the year.
No podía no estar 🤯 🔥 @Independiente https://t.co/6pU5A9V3hP pic.twitter.com/pbEPcV2huI
— Liga Profesional de Fútbol (@LigaAFA) November 13, 2025
The FIFA Best Awards, held in Doha, also honored the top players and coaches across both men’s and women’s football, with winners being announced later in the evening.
