Brazilian football icon Marta has clinched the coveted FIFA Marta Award for the Best Goal in Women’s Football 2024, narrowly beating Nigerian star and Barcelona alum Asisat Oshoala.
The award ceremony, held on Tuesday evening in Doha, was filled with excitement as the world’s best players gathered to celebrate their achievements. Marta, a six-time FIFA World Player of the Year, once again proved why she remains a household name in football.
Oshoala was a strong contender for the award, earning her nomination for an incredible bicycle kick goal scored during a UEFA Women’s Champions League match against Benfica in November 2023. The strike left fans and pundits in awe, showcasing her technical brilliance and athletic prowess.
A Narrow Defeat for Oshoala
Despite Oshoala’s breathtaking performance, she finished second in the voting with 20 points, just two behind Marta, who secured 22 votes.
Marta’s winning goal came during an international friendly against Jamaica in June 2024. Her strike, a stunning effort from a tight angle at the edge of the penalty box, was described as “pure magic” by commentators. She masterfully beat two defenders before unleashing a precise shot that soared past the goalkeeper.
The FIFA Marta Award, named after the Brazilian legend herself, celebrates the most outstanding goals scored in women’s football. For Marta, this win is another feather in her already illustrious cap.
“It’s a Privilege to Keep Inspiring”
Speaking after her victory, Marta dedicated the award to young girls aspiring to play football.
“This goal represents not just my journey but the journey of every girl who dreams of playing this beautiful game,” Marta said. “It’s a privilege to keep inspiring the next generation.”
Oshoala, despite missing out on the top prize, expressed gratitude for her nomination and congratulated Marta.
“To be nominated for an award of this magnitude is a great honor,” Oshoala said. “Marta is a legend, and I’m happy to be considered alongside her.”
A Star-Studded List of Nominees
The competition for the award was fierce, with other nominees including England’s Beth Mead, France’s Delphine Cascarino, and Germany’s Marina Hegering. Players from countries like the United States, Italy, and Mexico also featured, showcasing the global appeal of women’s football.
This diversity underscores how far the women’s game has come, with talents from across continents delivering moments of brilliance on the pitch.
A Look Back at Oshoala’s Journey
Asisat Oshoala has been a trailblazer for African women in football. The Nigerian forward has won numerous accolades, including the African Women’s Footballer of the Year award five times.
Her achievements with Barcelona include winning the UEFA Women’s Champions League in 2021 and multiple league titles.
Oshoala’s nomination for the FIFA Marta Award further solidifies her status as one of the best players in the world.
Her bicycle kick goal against Benfica drew comparisons to legendary strikes by players like Zlatan Ibrahimović and Cristiano Ronaldo. The precision, timing, and skill required to execute such a goal left fans and analysts singing her praises.
Marta: A Living Legend
For Marta, this latest achievement is another chapter in an extraordinary career.
The 38-year-old has been a beacon of excellence for over two decades, inspiring countless players around the world. Her ability to consistently deliver in high-pressure moments is what sets her apart.
Marta’s goal against Jamaica was a reminder of her incredible footballing intelligence. The buildup to the strike, her movement off the ball, and the audacious finish demonstrated why she continues to be regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
