By RYAN TOLMICH
Despite failing to advance out of the World Cup’s group stages, Tim Cahill’s spectacular finish against the Netherlands is still sending shockwaves through the soccer community.
FIFA announced Wednesday that Cahill’s volley is among 10 finalists for this years Puskas Award, which is given annually to recognize the year’s the best goal. Voting for the award has officially begun and will continue through Dec. 1, when voting will then be reopened for the three finalists with the highest totals.
Cahill’s nomination comes as recognition for his over-the-shoulder volley against the Netherlands, as the Australian international smashed the ball off the crossbar and in first time with his supposedly weaker left foot.
Joining Cahill on the nominee list is former Vancouver Whitecaps forward Camilo, whose October 2013 finish against the Portland Timbers is also up for consideration.
The Puskas Award, which was given to Zlatan Ibrahimovic last season, will be presented on Jan. 12, 2015 at FIFA’s Ballon d’Or ceremony.
Check out a list of the nominees and videos of their respective goals below:
Tim Cahill – June 18, 2014, Australia v. Netherlands, 2014 FIFA World Cup (VIDEO)
Diego Costa – November 23, 2013, Atlético Madrid v. Getafe, Primera División (VIDEO)
Marco Fabian – February 15, 2014, Cruz Azul v. Puebla, 1a División 2014 Clausura (VIDEO)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic – October 19, 2013, Paris St. Germain v. SC Bastia, Ligue 1 (VIDEO)
Pajtim Kasami – October 21, 2013, Crystal Palace v. Fulham, Premier League (VIDEO)
Stephanie Roche -October 20, 2013, Peamount United v. Wexford Youths, BEWNL (VIDEO)
James Rodriguez – June 28, 2014 – Colombia v. Uruguay, 2014 FIFA World Cup (VIDEO)
Camilo Sanvezzo – October 6, 2013 – Vancouver Whitecaps v. Portland Timbers, MLS (VIDEO)
Hisato Sato – March 8, 2014 – Sanfrecce Hiroshima v. Kawasaki Frontale, J.League (VIDEO)
Robin van Persie – June 13, 2014 – Spain v. Netherlands, 2014 FIFA World Cup (VIDEO)
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Which goal stood out to you? Who do you think will win the Puskas award?
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