Kampala, (UG):- Kitara FC forward Denis Omedi has been nominated for the prestigious 2024 FIFA Puskas Award, following his sensational rabona goal against KCCA FC in the FUFA Super 8 quarter-finals on August 6, 2024, at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo.
In a post on social media, Omedi expressed his gratitude saying; “Honoured to be awarded as a Puskas Award contender. To God be the glory. My humble regards.”
The remarkable strike, widely regarded as one of the greatest goals in Ugandan football history, came moments after KCCA’s Joel Sserunjogi had given the home side the lead with a long-range effort.
Positioned at the edge of the penalty area, Omedi took the ball with his weaker foot and, with sublime technique, executed a flawless rabona that sailed past KCCA goalkeeper Anthony Emojong into the top corner of the net, drawing the match level at 1-1.
The quarter-final clash ended in a hard-fought 3-3 draw, with Kitara advancing to the semifinals on a 4-3 aggregate.
However, it was Omedi’s stunning goal that captured the imagination of fans and football pundits alike, overshadowing the dramatic encounter.
Omedi now joins 10 other nominees for the coveted award, including top-tier footballers like Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho, celebrated for his acrobatic overhead kick against Everton, and West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus, whose solo goal against Freiburg left fans in awe.
Should Omedi win the Puskas Award, he would become only the second player to claim the honor for a rabona goal, following in the footsteps of Argentine star Erik Lamela, who won the award in 2021 for his exquisite effort with Tottenham Hotspur.
The Puskas Award, named in honor of Hungarian football legend Ferenc Puskás, is awarded to the most outstanding goal scored globally during the qualifying period, from August 21, 2023, to August 10, 2024.
Football fans around the world can vote for their favorite goal on FIFA’s official website until December 10, 2024. The winner will be announced during the FIFA Best Awards ceremony in January 2025.
Omedi’s nomination is a testament to his exceptional talent and underscores the growing influence of Ugandan football on the international stage.
This recognition is a proud moment for Uganda, as local talent continues to capture the attention of global audiences.
Do you have a story or an opinion to share? Email us on: [email protected] Or join the Daily Express WhatsApp channel for all the latest news and trends or join the Telegram Channel for the latest updates.
