Mohammed Kudus’ spectacular solo strike against Freiburg earns Puskás Award nomination

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Mohammed Kudus’s spectacular solo strike against SC Freiburg has earned him a nomination for the prestigious 2024 FIFA Puskás Award.

The 24-year-old netted the goal during West Ham United’s dominant 5-0 victory in the Round of 16 of the Europa League in March 2024.

Picking up the ball deep in his own half, Kudus embarked on an electrifying solo run, skillfully dribbling past three Freiburg defenders before firing an unstoppable shot into the net.

Kudus capped off an impressive Europa League campaign with five goals in nine matches, delivering standout performances that thrilled fans and contributed significantly to the Hammers’ success.

He joins a strong contingent of African nominees for the award, including Nigeria’s Paul Onuachu, Uganda’s Dennis Omedi, and Algeria’s Yassine Benzia.

Also in contention for the honour is Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho, whose acrobatic overhead kick against Everton turned heads worldwide.

Other nominees include Qatar’s Hassan Al Haydos, Inter Milan’s Federico Dimarco, Australia’s Terry Antonis, Argentina’s Walter Bou, Honduras’ Michaell Chirinos, and Hull City’s Jaden Philogene.

The winner of the Puskás Award, which celebrates the most spectacular goal of the year, will be unveiled during the FIFA Awards ceremony in January 2025.

Full list of Puskas Award nominees: