The much-anticipated FIFA Puskás Award voting has officially opened, and fans worldwide are gearing up to select their favorite goal from a dazzling list of nominees. Among the standout candidates is Algerian midfielder Yassine Benzia, whose mesmerizing strike during an international match against South Africa captured global attention.
Benzia, who plays for Qarabag in the Azerbaijan Premier League, earned his nomination through sheer brilliance. The goal came in the dying moments of a thrilling clash in Baraki that ended in a 3-3 draw. With Algeria trailing, Benzia received a precise pass from teammate Monsef Bakrar, his back to goal. In a moment of instinct and artistry, Benzia flicked the ball up with his right boot and executed a stunning left-footed bicycle kick that soared past the South African goalkeeper. The goal sent the home fans into rapturous celebrations and has since become a viral sensation.
Though currently representing Algeria, Benzia’s career began with France, where he made waves at the FIFA U-17 World Cup™ in 2011, netting five goals for Les Bleus. After representing France at youth levels up to U-21, Benzia switched his allegiance to Algeria in 2016, a decision that has since enriched his international career.
His Puskás Award nomination is a significant milestone, not just for Benzia but for Algerian football. The goal symbolizes creativity, determination, and the ability to deliver under pressure — qualities that have defined Benzia’s career.
Voting for the Puskás Award is open to fans globally on FIFA’s official website. Football enthusiasts now have the chance to decide whether Yassine Benzia’s bicycle-kick masterpiece will etch his name into footballing history.
