Santiago Montiel has claimed the coveted 2025 FIFA Puskás Award for his breathtaking bicycle kick goal while playing for Argentine club Independiente. The 25-year-old midfielder received football’s highest honor for aesthetic excellence during FIFA’s The Best awards ceremony in Doha, Qatar.

The prestigious award recognizes the season’s most beautiful goal. Winners are determined through combined fan votes and selections from a FIFA expert panel. Montiel’s victory highlights exceptional technical brilliance on the pitch.

The Award-Winning Moment

The historic strike occurred on May 11, 2025, during an Argentine Primera División match. Independiente faced Independiente Rivadavia at Estadio Libertadores de América. With scores locked at 0-0, a partially cleared corner landed just outside the box.

Montiel instantly launched into an acrobatic bicycle kick from over 20 yards. His audacious strike rocketed into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper stunned. The spectacular solo effort secured a 1-0 victory for Independiente.

Football analysts worldwide have hailed the goal as an instant classic. Many compare it to football’s most iconic finishes across generations.

Competition and Context

Montiel overcame formidable contenders including Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Arsenal’s Declan Rice. Persija Jakarta defender Rizky Ridho also featured among finalists.

Mexico’s Lizbeth Ovalle claimed the women’s award. Her remarkable scorpion kick earned recognition as the year’s best women’s goal.

This marks Argentina’s second consecutive Puskás Award victory. Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho won the 2024 edition, showcasing Argentina’s flair for spectacular goals.

Named after Hungarian legend Ferenc Puskás, the award honors imagination and technical excellence. Since 2009, it has celebrated beautiful goals from all levels of football. Previous winners include Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Mohamed Salah.