The Algerian footballer who scored a spectacular goal against Bafana Bafana has expressed his thoughts on being overlooked for the Puskas Award at the Best FIFA Football Awards.
Yassine Benzia delivered a breath-taking overhead kick during an international friendly against South Africa at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in March.
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The stunning strike drew widespread admiration and was subsequently nominated for the Goal of the Year category at the 2024 CAF Awards. It also earned a spot among the candidates for the highly coveted Puskás Award.
Despite the acclaim, the CAF accolade was ultimately claimed by Angola's Mabululu for his neat finish against Namibia during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Following the announcement, Benzia is believed to have taken to social media to share his reaction.
In the comment section, the player posted a series of laughing emojis accompanied by several thumbs-up icons, suggesting a mix of surprise and sarcasm over the decision.
Le plus beau but africain n'a pas été attribué à Yassine Benzia ! ??Visiblement, cela lui fait rire ! ???????? pic.twitter.com/5MrJX8bkhN
— ???????????????????????? ?????? (@arobasedzair2) December 16, 2024
Then, it was confirmed that the Puskas Prize was handed to Manchester United's Alejandro Garnacho for his bicycle kick against Everton in a Premier League encounter last season.
Taking to social media, Benzia expressed pride at being nominated for both accolades, despite winning none.
"Thank you all for your mobilization in the last few days for the Puskas prize and that of the best goal at the CAF Awards," he said per Afrik Foot.
"It will have been quite an adventure, I would never have imagined receiving such a wave of support.
"It will not have been enough, but I am proud to have carried the colours of Algeria high. We are together."
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