AFRICA MEDIA PRODUCTION AGENCY
Denis Omedi’s Stunning Rabona Goal Nominated for FIFA Puskás Award 2024
Briefing
Description :
Kitara FC and Uganda Cranes forward Denis Omedi has achieved a remarkable milestone by earning a nomination for the prestigious 2024 FIFA Puskás Award. This accolade celebrates the most spectacular goals scored worldwide during the eligibility period, which ran from August 21, 2023, to August 10, 2024.
Omedi's jaw-dropping Rabona goal occurred during the FUFA Super 8 quarterfinal clash against KCCA FC on August 6, 2024, at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo. With Kitara trailing after a long-range opener by KCCA’s Joel Sserunjogi, Omedi delivered a moment of magic. Positioned at the edge of the penalty box, he executed a flawless Rabona, sending the ball soaring into the top corner past goalkeeper Anthony Emojong. This incredible strike not only equalized the game but also etched its place in Ugandan football history.
The match itself ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw, with Kitara advancing to the semifinals on a 4-3 aggregate scoreline. However, it was Omedi’s audacious skill and creativity that dominated the headlines.
Omedi’s nomination places him among an elite group of footballers, including Manchester United's Alejandro Garnacho, recognized for his overhead kick against Everton, and West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus for a stunning solo effort against Freiburg. If victorious, Omedi would become the second player to win the Puskás Award with a Rabona strike, following Erik Lamela's success in 2021 for Tottenham Hotspur.
The nomination is not only a testament to Omedi's individual brilliance but also a reflection of the rising talent in Ugandan football. It offers a platform to showcase the skill and creativity emanating from Uganda’s local leagues, elevating the nation’s presence on the global stage.
Named in honor of Hungarian football legend Ferenc Puskás, the award recognizes the most outstanding goals scored in a calendar year. Past winners include global icons such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar Jr., and Zlatan Ibrahimović.
Fans worldwide can cast their votes for the FIFA Puskás Award via the organization’s official website. Voting closes on December 10, 2024, and the winner will be unveiled during the FIFA Best Awards ceremony in January 2025.
Omedi’s inclusion in the 2024 Puskás Award nominees is a source of immense pride for Uganda, underscoring the nation’s potential to make its mark on the world football stage.