Rizky Ridho's Stunning Strike Earns Him Nomination for FIFA Puskas Award 2025.

Jakarta – Persija Jakarta defender Rizky Ridho has expressed his surprise and gratitude after his spectacular goal in a Liga 1 match against Arema FC was nominated for the prestigious FIFA Puskas Award 2025. The goal, scored on March 9, 2025, is one of eleven nominees for the award, which recognizes the most aesthetically significant, or most beautiful goal of the year. The nomination places Ridho alongside a cohort of international football stars, including Lamine Yamal and Declan Rice, marking a significant milestone in the young defender’s career.

The goal in question occurred during a Liga 1 encounter between Persija Jakarta and Arema FC at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium. With the match evenly poised, Ridho initiated a counter-attack from within his own penalty area, displaying both defensive awareness and offensive vision. After winning possession, he delivered a precise pass to Ryo Matsumura, who was positioned in space on the right flank. Matsumura, in turn, executed a perfectly weighted through ball back into the path of the onrushing Ridho, who had continued his run from deep within his own half. Without breaking stride, Ridho unleashed a powerful, long-range shot that soared over the outstretched arms of the Arema FC goalkeeper and nestled into the back of the net.

The goal was characterized by its combination of vision, technique, and audacity. The swift transition from defense to attack, the accurate passing, and the confident strike from distance all contributed to its aesthetic appeal. Moreover, the goal highlighted Ridho’s athleticism and determination to contribute to the team’s offensive efforts, despite his primary role as a central defender.

“Alhamdulillah, I am incredibly grateful to be nominated for the Puskas Award,” Ridho stated in a press release issued by Persija Jakarta. “To be honest, I never imagined that goal would receive this kind of recognition. I want to thank my teammates, the coaching staff, the officials, and all the Jakmania [Persija Jakarta supporters] who have always supported me. This goal was a result of teamwork, not just an individual effort. I hope this can motivate all of us to continue striving for better.”

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The Puskas Award, established in 2009 in honor of Ferenc Puskás, the legendary Hungarian striker, aims to celebrate the most beautiful goal scored each year, irrespective of the competition, gender, or nationality of the scorer. The criteria for selection include the aesthetic quality of the goal, the significance of the match, the absence of luck or a defensive error, and the overall impact of the goal. The winner is determined by a public vote, combined with a selection from a panel of football experts.

Rizky Ridho Ramadhani, born on November 21, 2001, in Surabaya, Indonesia, has emerged as one of the most promising young defenders in Indonesian football. Known for his composure on the ball, his aerial ability, and his tactical awareness, Ridho has quickly established himself as a key player for both Persija Jakarta and the Indonesian national team.

Ridho began his professional career with Persebaya Surabaya, his hometown club, before joining Persija Jakarta in 2023. Since arriving at the capital club, he has become an integral part of the team’s defensive setup, contributing to their defensive solidity and playing a crucial role in their attacking transitions. He is also the captain for both Persija Jakarta and the Indonesia national team.

At the international level, Ridho has represented Indonesia at various youth levels, before making his senior debut in 2021. He has since become a regular member of the national team, featuring in crucial matches in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the AFC Asian Cup. His leadership qualities and his consistent performances have earned him the trust of the national team coach and the respect of his teammates.

Persija Jakarta, one of the most successful clubs in Indonesian football, has a rich history and a large and passionate fanbase. Based in Jakarta, the club has won numerous league titles and domestic cups, and has a long-standing rivalry with Persib Bandung. In the current Liga 1 season, Persija Jakarta are aiming to challenge for the title, and Ridho’s performances in defense will be crucial to their success. As of the latest standings, Persija Jakarta are currently positioned within the top five of the league table, displaying a solid run of form with a string of victories and draws. Their recent matches have showcased their tactical flexibility and resilience, with Ridho playing a pivotal role in maintaining their defensive stability.

The nomination for the Puskas Award is a significant achievement for Ridho and a source of pride for Indonesian football. It highlights the growing talent and potential within the Indonesian league and showcases the country’s passion for the sport. It also serves as an inspiration for young Indonesian footballers, demonstrating that with hard work, dedication, and a touch of brilliance, they can achieve international recognition.

The other nominees for the FIFA Puskas Award 2025 include goals from some of the world’s most renowned players. Lamine Yamal’s stunning curler for Barcelona, Declan Rice’s powerful strike from outside the box for Arsenal, and several other outstanding goals from leagues around the world are all vying for the coveted award.

The voting process for the Puskas Award is open to the public and will continue until a specified deadline. Football fans around the world are encouraged to watch the nominated goals and cast their votes for their favorite. The winner of the award will be announced at the annual FIFA Awards ceremony, which celebrates the best players, coaches, and goals in world football.

For Rizky Ridho, the Puskas Award nomination is a testament to his talent, his hard work, and his dedication to the sport. Whether he wins the award or not, the nomination itself is a significant achievement and a moment of pride for Indonesian football. It is a reminder that football is a global game, and that talent can emerge from anywhere in the world. As Ridho continues his career with Persija Jakarta and the Indonesian national team, he will undoubtedly continue to inspire and entertain football fans with his skill, his passion, and his commitment to the beautiful game. His recent performances have not only solidified his position as a key player but also garnered attention from international scouts, further underscoring his potential for a successful career beyond the Indonesian league. The anticipation surrounding his future prospects continues to grow, with many predicting that he will soon be making waves on a global scale.

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Ahmad Zein Salamo: Ahmad Zein Salamo is a dedicated football journalist at Sports News Break, covering the global game with a sharp eye for detail and passion for storytelling. With years of experience following Europe’s top leagues and international tournaments, he delivers insightful analysis, match previews, and breaking news with journalistic integrity and depth.

His reporting combines tactical understanding with a human perspective, highlighting not only the drama on the pitch but also the stories that shape the sport beyond it. From Champions League nights to grassroots football, Ahmad’s work reflects a true love for the beautiful game and a commitment to bringing readers closer to the action.