Lionel Messi has the opportunity to win the Puskás Award this year, after he was named on the shortlist for the 2018/19 prize by FIFA. His spectacular chip in the game against Real Betis at the Benito Villamarin, in which he lifted the ball over Pau López in a 0-5 triumph, has been picked out for special recognition.
Players such as Matheus Cunha, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Ajara Nchout, Fabio Cuagliarella, Juan Fernando Quintero, Amy Rodriguez, Billie Simpson, Andros Townsend and Daniel Zsori are his fellow contenders for the honour.
Although he finished third in the voting in 2010/11 and second in 2014/15, the Puskás Award is one of the few prizes Messi is still to collect.
Vote for Messi
Registered users of the FIFA official website can vote from now through to 1 September. Once the public vote is closed, the top three will be presented to the FIFA Legends, who will decide the winning goal. Go here to give Messi your vote!
Winner to be named on 23 September
The winner of the Puskás Award will be named on 23 September during the FIFA The Best ceremony on 23 September, where Messi is also in contention for Player of the Year and Striker of the Year, Frenkie de Jong for Midfielder of the Year, and Caroline Graham Hansen for Women's Player of the Year.
