Football is a sport defined by moments of brilliance, and few moments are more exhilarating than a goal that leaves spectators in awe. Each year, the Puskás Award celebrates these moments, honouring the player who produces the most spectacular goal. For female footballers, the Marta Award recognises equally stunning feats.
After last year’s triumph by Alejandro Garnacho, whose bicycle kick for Manchester United captured global attention, the 2025 award once again went to an Argentine sensation. Santiago Montiel, 25, of Independiente, received the Puskás Award for a goal that will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest of the season.
The winning goal came in a tightly contested match against Riveradvía. Early in the second half, a corner clearance landed outside the box. Montiel, without looking back, executed an impeccable overhead kick that left the opposition goalkeeper powerless. His goal proved decisive, securing a 1–0 victory for Independiente and showcasing the artistry and precision of his craft.
The award ceremony saw stiff competition, with nominees including Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, who curled a beautiful left-footed strike against Spain, and Arsenal’s Declan Rice, who scored a superb free-kick against Real Madrid in the Champions League. Despite these remarkable efforts, Montiel’s audacious strike stood out for its technical brilliance and sheer audacity.
In the women’s division, Mexican midfielder Lizbeth Ovalle received the Marta Award for a similarly spectacular overhead goal scored for Tigres against Guadalajara in March. Ovalle’s goal highlights the growing recognition and excitement surrounding women’s football, showcasing the athleticism and skill of the game’s top female talent.
Montiel’s award-winning goal adds to Argentina’s illustrious footballing legacy, reinforcing the country’s reputation for producing world-class forwards capable of breathtaking moments. Both Montiel and Ovalle have now set a new standard for spectacular goals in 2025, thrilling fans and inspiring the next generation of footballers worldwide.