By Nigerian international soccer star Asisat Oshoala has been awarded the best goal of the UEFA Women’s Champions League 2023/24 season, as reported by PUNCH Sports Extra. The 29-year-old forward’s stunning bicycle kick for Barcelona in their 5-0 victory over Benfica in the opening group game was selected as the top goal by UEFA’s Technical Observer panel.
Oshoala’s spectacular goal came after she was introduced as a substitute by Barcelona coach Jonatan Giráldez, with the Blaugrana already leading 4-0. The reigning Women’s African Footballer of The Year wasted no time in making her mark on the game, scoring the final goal of the encounter in style. This goal would ultimately be her only one in the competition before she made a mid-season move to American side Bay FC.
UEFA announced on Monday that Oshoala’s goal was chosen as the best among the top 10 goals selected from the 2023/24 UEFA Women’s Champions League campaign. The organization’s website stated, “Nigerian forward Asisat Oshoala taking the prize for Goal of the Season thanks to her stunning bicycle kick for Barcelona against Benfica on Matchday 1.”
Barcelona midfielder Aitana BonmatĂ secured second place for her bending effort in the quarter-finals second-leg win against Brann, while Lyon’s Delphine Cascarino took third spot for her long-range strike in the quarter-finals second-leg victory over Benfica.
Despite her mid-season transfer to Bay FC, Oshoala made history with Barcelona FemenĂ by becoming the first African to win three UEFA Women’s Champions League titles. The Super Falcons striker received a winner’s medal for her contributions to Barcelona’s Champions League campaign, having played in two group-stage matches and scoring once before her move to the United States.
Oshoala’s achievement not only highlights her exceptional talent and skill but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring African footballers, particularly women, who dream of making their mark on the global stage. Her success in the UEFA Women’s Champions League and her recognition for the best goal of the season further cement her status as one of the most talented and influential African footballers of her generation.
