Kitara FC forward Denis Omedi - Photo Courtesy Kitara FC.
Kitara FC forward Denis Omedi has been shortlisted for the 2024 FIFA Puskas Award after 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.
The goal, hailed as one of the greatest in Ugandan football history, came moments after KCCA's Joel Sserunjogi opened the scoring with a long-range strike. Positioned at the edge of the penalty area, Omedi stunned the crowd with a perfectly executed Rabona that soared past goalkeeper Anthony Emojong into the top corner, equalizing the match 1-1.
The quarter-final clash ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw, with Kitara advancing to the semifinals on a 4-3 aggregate. However, Omedi’s moment of magic became the enduring highlight of the encounter.
Omedi joins 10 other nominees for the prestigious accolade, including Manchester United's Alejandro Garnacho, celebrated for his acrobatic overhead kick against Everton and West Ham's Mohammed Kudus for his mesmerizing solo goal versus Freiburg.
If Omedi wins, he will make history as the second player to claim the Puskas Award with a rabona, following Erik Lamela’s victory in 2021 for his stunning effort with Tottenham Hotspur.
The Puskas Award, named in honor of legendary Hungarian striker Ferenc Puskás, recognizes the most outstanding goals scored globally during the qualifying period (August 21, 2023, to August 10, 2024).
Fans worldwide can vote for their favorite goal via FIFA’s official website until December 10, 2024. The winner will be revealed during the FIFA Best Awards ceremony in January 2025.
Omedi’s nomination underscores his exceptional talent while elevating Ugandan football’s profile on the international stage. It marks a proud moment for the country as local talent continues to captivate global audiences.
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