Puskas Award 2024: Early Top 10 African Contenders for Coveted Prize Including Kudus, Bebe, Diaz

The 2023/24 season has witnessed a plethora of awe-inspiring goals, setting the stage for an enthralling showdown to determine the most spectacular strike of the year.

The prestigious Puskas Award, named after legendary Hungarian forward Ferenc Puskás, celebrates the greatest goal in men's and women's football across the qualification period.

In 2023, Brazilian midfielder Guilherme Madruga's acrobatic overhead kick emerged victorious, edging out Sporting's Nuno Santos' audacious rabona and a long-range thunderbolt from Brighton's Julio Enciso.

As the countdown to the 2024 award begins, Sports Brief examines several contenders that could clinch the coveted prize.

Lamine Camara’s Long-Range Marvel

As per BeiN Sports, Senegal’s Lamine Camara stunned audiences with his incredible goal for Metz against Monaco in Ligue 1. In the ninth round of the competition last October, Camara seized the ball from his own half and launched a phenomenal strike from 57 meters out, catching Monaco's goalkeeper Philipp Kohn off guard.

Paul Onuachu’s Scorpion Kick

Paul Onuachu of Trabzonspor delivered a jaw-dropping scorpion kick goal against Konyaspor in the Turkish Super Lig last November. With the match nearing its end, Onuachu, known for his towering presence, turned a seemingly futile cross into an extraordinary goal. His instinctive strike amidst a crowded penalty area highlighted his exceptional skill and quick thinking.

Bebe’s Free-Kick Brilliance

Former Manchester United player Bebe, now representing Cape Verde, showcased his prowess with a magnificent free-kick during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). In a group-stage match against Mozambique, Bebe channelled Cristiano Ronaldo’s technique, delivering a powerful and precise shot that gave his team the lead.

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Football

Mohammed Kudus’ Solo Run

As reported by Footy Ghana, West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus exhibited his talent with two remarkable goals in their Europa League clash against Freiburg. During a 5-0 triumph, the Ghanaian embarked on a solo run from within his half, evading three defenders before smashing the ball into the net.

Arthur Masuaku’s Free-Kick Surprise

DR Congo’s Arthur Masuaku caught everyone off guard with a stunning free-kick goal against Guinea in the 2023 AFCON quarter-final. From a wide position near the left touchline, Masuaku opted for a direct shot instead of a cross, sending the ball powerfully into the net.

Other African contenders for Puskas 2024

Aboubakary Koita’s Long-Range Strike

Mauritania’s Aboubakary Koita also delivered a breathtaking goal against Angola in the 2023 AFCON. Despite a 3-1 defeat, Koita’s long-range shot that found the top corner was a testament to his striking ability, making it a standout moment in the match.

Hassane Kamara’s Bicycle Kick

Udinese’s Hassane Kamara showcased his acrobatic skills with a sensational bicycle kick against Salernitana. Equalizing in style just before half-time, Kamara's goal was the highlight of the match and a significant contribution to the team's 15th draw of the season.

Kevin Pina’s Powerful Strike

Kevin Pina secured Cape Verde’s victory over Mozambique in the 2023 AFCON with a stunning strike from outside the box. His powerful shot in the 69th minute sealed the win for the Blue Sharks, demonstrating his excellent shooting ability and composure under pressure.

Brahim Diaz’s Solo Effort

Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz shone with a superb solo goal against RB Leipzig in the UEFA Champions League. Stepping up in the absence of Jude Bellingham, Diaz weaved past three defenders before curling the ball into the top corner, securing a crucial 1-0 win for his team.

Mohammed Kudus' bicycle kick

Kudus' spectacular form continued against Premier League champions Manchester City, after he scored an excellent bicycle kick just before half-time at the Etihad Stadium

Patrick Bamford scores Puskas contender in FA Cup

Sports Brief reported that Leeds striker, Patrick Bamford, may have wrapped up the FA Cup goal of the tournament with a stunning volley on Sunday, January 7, against Peterborough.

Bamford, who has struggled for form in the Championship this season, announced himself in the FA Cup third round with Leeds’ second goal, and it is worth a watch.

He collected an aerial ball from Ethan Ampadu and expertly controlled it with his chest before unleashing a volley that surprised the whole stadium.