Asisat Oshoala Nominated for First-Ever FIFA Marta Award

Nigerian footballer Asisat Oshoala has made history once again as her stunning bicycle kick against Benfica in the UEFA Women’s Champions League has earned her a nomination for the inaugural FIFA Marta Award. The six-time CAF Player of the Year winner has become the first African player to be nominated for this prestigious award, further cementing her place among the best players in the world.

Oshoala’s exceptional goal, scored while playing for FC Barcelona, has been widely celebrated for its technical brilliance and audacity. The forward's ability to execute such a perfect bicycle kick at a critical moment of the match demonstrated her exceptional skill and footballing intelligence. This goal, in particular, caught the eye of the global football community and has now been recognized by the FIFA Marta Award panel.

The FIFA Marta Award is named after Brazilian legend Marta, widely regarded as one of the greatest female footballers of all time. It is designed to honor the most outstanding goal of the year, as voted on by fans, players, and football experts. This is the first edition of the award, which is expected to become a major fixture in the global football calendar, highlighting the growing recognition of women’s football.

Asisat Oshoala’s nomination is a significant milestone, not only for her career but also for African football. Her achievement reflects the increasing visibility of women’s football on the continent and highlights the talent and skill that African players continue to bring to the international stage. Oshoala’s influence extends beyond the pitch, as she remains a powerful advocate for women’s rights and the promotion of football for young girls in Africa.

The nomination comes on the back of an impressive season for Oshoala, who has been in sensational form for both her club and country. At FC Barcelona, she has consistently been one of the top scorers in the Spanish league, contributing to the team's dominance in domestic and European competitions. Her performances for the Nigerian national team have also earned her numerous accolades, further solidifying her legacy as one of the best female players in the world.

The FIFA Marta Award not only recognizes individual moments of brilliance but also aims to celebrate the athletes who continue to push the boundaries of women’s football. Oshoala’s nomination serves as an inspiration to young girls across Africa and the world, showing that with hard work, determination, and a love for the game, anything is possible.

As the global football community eagerly awaits the announcement of the winner, Oshoala’s nomination stands as a testament to the rising profile of women’s football and the incredible talent emerging from Africa. Regardless of the outcome, her place in the history of the FIFA Marta Award is already secured.