Lamine Yamal's Puskas Award Nomination Sparks Debate as Real Betis Draws Comparisons to Antony's Strike.

The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) recently unveiled the eleven nominees vying for the prestigious Puskas Award 2025, an annual accolade recognizing the most aesthetically significant, or most beautiful, goal scored throughout the calendar year. Among the contenders is Barcelona’s prodigious winger, Lamine Yamal, whose captivating goal against Espanyol has garnered significant attention. However, the nomination has not been without its share of controversy, as Real Betis, a fellow La Liga club, has subtly questioned the selection, drawing parallels to a similar goal scored by their own player, Antony.

Yamal’s nominated goal, a testament to his burgeoning talent, was a quintessential example of a ‘cut inside’ maneuver. Receiving the ball on the right flank, the young Spaniard skillfully navigated past defenders, driving towards the center of the pitch. With a subtle shift of weight and a deft touch, he unleashed a curling left-footed strike that nestled perfectly into the top corner of the Espanyol goal, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance. The goal showcased Yamal’s technical prowess, composure under pressure, and an innate ability to create something out of seemingly nothing.

The Puskas Award, named in honor of Ferenc Puskás, the legendary Hungarian striker renowned for his powerful and accurate shots, seeks to celebrate goals that are not only visually stunning but also demonstrate a high degree of skill, technique, and tactical awareness. Previous winners of the award include Cristiano Ronaldo, Zlatan Ibrahimović, Neymar, and Mohamed Salah, highlighting the caliber of goals recognized by this esteemed honor.

Real Betis’s subtle jab at Yamal’s nomination stems from their belief that Antony, their own talented winger, had scored a remarkably similar goal against the same opponent, Espanyol, earlier in March 2025. In that match, Antony, mirroring Yamal’s approach, received the ball on the right wing, cut inside onto his favored left foot, and unleashed a curling shot that found the back of the net. The goal, scored in the 90th minute, proved to be the decisive winner, securing a valuable 2-1 victory for Real Betis.

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While both goals bear striking similarities, there are subtle nuances that differentiate them. Yamal’s goal was characterized by its precision and placement, bending perfectly into the top corner with minimal fuss. Antony’s goal, on the other hand, possessed a greater degree of power and dynamism, with the ball traveling at a slightly higher velocity.

The debate surrounding the two goals has ignited a fervent discussion among football fans and pundits alike, with many weighing in on which goal they believe is more deserving of the Puskas Award nomination. Some argue that Yamal’s goal, given his age and relative inexperience, is a more impressive feat, showcasing his immense potential and maturity beyond his years. Others contend that Antony’s goal, being the match-winner in a closely contested encounter, carries greater significance and should be given precedence.

Lamine Yamal, at just 17 years old, has rapidly emerged as one of the most exciting prospects in European football. Having broken into the Barcelona first team at a remarkably young age, Yamal has consistently impressed with his dribbling skills, creativity, and eye for goal. His performances have drawn comparisons to Lionel Messi, a comparison that, while premature, speaks volumes about the talent he possesses. In the current season, Yamal has featured prominently for Barcelona, contributing significantly to their attacking play. His statistics, though still developing, showcase his growing influence on the team, with a notable number of goals and assists to his name.

Antony, meanwhile, has established himself as a key player for Real Betis, known for his pace, trickery, and ability to unlock defenses. The Brazilian winger has consistently delivered impactful performances for his club, contributing both goals and assists. His goal against Espanyol, the one being compared to Yamal’s, was a testament to his individual brilliance and his ability to make a difference in crucial moments.

Real Betis, under the guidance of their experienced manager, Manuel Pellegrini, have been enjoying a successful season, challenging for a place in the Champions League. Their squad boasts a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talents, creating a balanced and competitive team. Antony’s contribution to their success has been undeniable, with his performances on the wing providing a constant threat to opposing defenses.

Barcelona, on the other hand, are undergoing a period of transition under their new manager, Xavi Hernandez. The Catalan giants are aiming to rebuild their squad and restore their status as one of the dominant forces in European football. Lamine Yamal represents a key component of their future plans, with the club placing great faith in his ability to develop into a world-class player.

The Puskas Award 2025 promises to be a closely contested affair, with a diverse range of stunning goals from across the globe vying for the coveted prize. In addition to Yamal and potentially Antony, other notable nominees include goals from players competing in various leagues and competitions, showcasing the global appeal and diversity of the sport.

One notable nomination comes from Indonesia, with Rizky Ridho’s long-range strike from the center of the pitch also making the cut. This nomination has sparked immense pride and excitement among Indonesian football fans, highlighting the growing popularity of the sport in the country.

The final decision on the Puskas Award winner rests with a jury of football experts and fans, who will cast their votes based on a variety of factors, including the aesthetic appeal of the goal, the level of skill involved, and the significance of the goal in the context of the match. The winner will be announced at the annual FIFA Awards ceremony, a prestigious event that celebrates the best players, coaches, and goals in the world of football.

The debate surrounding Lamine Yamal’s Puskas Award nomination and Real Betis’s comparison to Antony’s goal serves as a reminder of the subjective nature of beauty in football. While both goals possess undeniable qualities, the ultimate decision on which is more deserving of recognition will likely be a matter of personal preference. Regardless of the outcome, both Yamal and Antony have showcased their talent and skill on the global stage, cementing their status as exciting prospects for the future of football. The coming weeks will see increased scrutiny and analysis of all nominees, with the footballing world eagerly anticipating the announcement of the Puskas Award 2025 winner. The competition is fierce, and each goal brings a unique element of skill and artistry to the table, making the selection process a challenging task for the jury and fans alike. The Puskas Award remains a celebrated acknowledgment of the beautiful game’s capacity for awe-inspiring moments and extraordinary athletic achievement.

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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.