Rizky Ridho Misses 2025 Puskas Award, Santiago Montiel's Bicycle Kick Wins World's Best

The public's hope for Indonesian Football to see Rizky Ridho named as winner of the 2025 Puskas Award has finally vanished. The Indonesian National Team defender failed to win the Best Goal in the World award. The prestigious title went to Santiago Montiel.

The 2025 Puskas Award officially belongs to Independiente's right-back Montiel, thanks to his spectacular goal against Independiente Rivadavia in May 2025. 

During that Argentine League match, Montiel created a magical moment that instantly captured global attention.

Montiel pounced on a loose ball in front of the penalty box with a left-footed scissor kick. The ball rocketed into the opponent's goal, showcasing a combination of bravery, high technique, and instinct - particularly unusual for a defensive player.

The goal quickly went viral and became a global talking point due to its extraordinary difficulty level. 

Unsurprisingly, Montiel's effort defeated 10 other candidates in the 2025 Puskas Award nomination list, including Rizky Ridho.

Ridho earned nomination through his phenomenal long-range strike when Persija Jakarta defeated Arema FC in Liga 1. 

From the halfway line, the 24-year-old defender unleashed an accurate shot that sailed directly into the opponent's net. 

Besides Ridho, star names like Lamine Yamal (Barcelona) and Alessandro Deiola (Cagliari) also featured among the candidates.

The Puskas Award selection process began with choosing the year's 11 best goals. Evaluation was then conducted by two voter groups: football fans and the FIFA Legends panel, each assigning first to third rankings.

Each selection carried specific point values, with fan votes and the FIFA Legends panel carrying equal 50% weight in the total assessment. 

The player accumulating the highest points after the entire voting process - supervised by independent observers - was declared winner.

After being crowned 2025 Puskas Award winner, Montiel humbly shared his reaction.

“I didn't think about it, I just hit it,” Montiel stated about his beautiful goal on FIFA's official website.

He also expressed gratitude to all supporters, including Independiente fans, the club, and FIFA Football Legends.

“Honestly I'm thrilled to receive this award. I want to send a warm hug to all of you.”

Despite failing to bring home the Puskas Award trophy, Ridho immediately liked FIFA President Gianni Infantino's Instagram post showcasing Santiago Montiel's victory.