Regarding His Spectacular Goal Entering FIFA Puskas Award 2025, Rizky Ridho's Statement

Amidst the increasingly competitive roar of Liga 1, one moment from Patriot Candrabhaga Stadium on the night of March 9, 2025, now transcends national borders. The long-range goal by Rizky Ridho Ramadhani, the center-back, captain of Persija, and national team pillar, has officially earned a nomination for the 2025 FIFA Puskás Award, the honor for the world's best goal.

An achievement the player himself never imagined.

“I thank my teammates, coaching staff, officials, and all Jakmania who always support us. That goal was born from teamwork, not solely an individual action,” Ridho stated in Jakarta.

In the atmosphere of modern football, where data analytics, ball progression, and low build-up are daily topics, Ridho's goal instead reminds the public of one thing: the courage to make a decision in a split second.

An Explosion from the Backline that Pierced the World Stage

Ridho's goal wasn't just a hopeful long shot that happened to go in. The moment was born from Persija's quick transition scheme, one of the standout patterns in the team's tactical evolution since the start of the season. After winning the ball in his own penalty area, Ridho released a pass into open space for Ryo Matsumura. The Japanese winger then returned the momentum with a through ball that swept across half the field.

Ridho, who kept running following the ball's path, didn't need a second touch. No control. No hesitation. One swing of his foot, and the ball soared with inexplicable accuracy. The trajectory bypassed Arema's defensive line and dipped into the top corner like a slow-motion scene.

This is the kind of goal that makes FIFA replay the footage repeatedly.

From Room Tactic to Winning Mentality

After his goal touched the global stage, Ridho didn't rush to take the spotlight. Instead, he emphasized that this moment is extra energy for the team. Indonesia's reliable defender said the goal reflected squad unity and the courage to take risks in critical situations.

Persija's CEO, Mohamad Prapanca, sees this goal not just as a viral highlight, but as validation of Ridho's progress as a leader on the pitch.

“Ridho shows that dreams know no limits. That goal is a mirror of hard work, discipline, and the courage to attempt what seems impossible," he stated.

For Persija, this isn't just about an individual moment, but a symbol of the club's resurgence in a season laden with pressure and expectation. The goal, previously chosen as Goal of the Season in Liga 1, now gains a wider stage – a stage reserved only for football's most iconic goals.

Puskás Award: Fierce Global Competition

Ridho's goal now competes with 10 other candidates on FIFA's shortlist, including goals from big names like Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice and Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal.

It's the kind of competition that makes the wave of support from the Indonesian public incredibly meaningful. Persija is also inviting Jakmania and national football lovers to participate in the voting. Voting is open until December 9, 2025, via FIFA's official website.

For the first time in a very long while, Indonesia has a representative again on the list of candidates for the world's best goal – something that brings pride not only to the club but to the entire national football ecosystem.

The Spotlight's Focus: When Indonesia Touches World Football's Radar

Ridho's goal brings a wider domino effect: the visibility of Indonesian players in the eyes of the world increases, Persija's performance gets positive spotlight, and most importantly, the younger generation can see that players from the domestic league can also break into FIFA's highest nomination.

The Macan Kemayoran captain might not have imagined his long-range strike would carry a story this far. But football always has room for surprises, especially when courage meets the perfect moment.

And for millions of young people growing up with football dreams, Ridho has just opened a door: that even from the heart of Persija's defense, a goal can shake the world stage.