Football fans across the globe were sent into a frenzy as the nominations for the prestigious FIFA awards were announced, with Arsenal’s midfield powerhouse Declan Rice headlining the shortlist for the Puskás Award and Brentford’s Ashley Cheatley earning a stunning nomination for the Marta Award. The news not only highlights Rice’s breathtaking form but also spotlights Cheatley’s fairytale journey, leaving the football world in awe and disbelief over these unlikely, yet thoroughly deserved, nominations.
Declan Rice Career
Since making a record move from West Ham United to Arsenal in 2023, Declan Rice has grown into one of the game’s most influential midfielders. His combination of physical presence, technical skill, and footballing intelligence has been paramount in Arsenal’s domestic and European campaigns. Rice’s leadership on and off the pitch saw him quickly win over the Arsenal faithful, culminating in being voted Arsenal Player of the Season and earning selection in the UEFA Champions League Team of the Season.
The Puskás Award-Worthy Moment
Rice’s moment of magic came in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals against Real Madrid on April 8, 2025. With Arsenal leading in a high-stakes match, Rice lined up a free-kick from over 25 yards out and fired an unstoppable shot into the top corner. The strike veered past the wall and left the Madrid goalkeeper stranded, sending Arsenal on their path to a memorable 3-0 victory.
Fans and pundits alike lauded the goal as one of the greatest seen in Europe that season, instantly etching itself into Arsenal folklore. Rice’s free-kick now stands among the 11 goals shortlisted for the 2025 FIFA Puskás Award, reserved for the most spectacular goal globally over the past year.
Why Rice’s Nomination Matters
Rice’s nomination symbolises more than individual brilliance. It acknowledges his transformation into a world-class player capable of changing games on the highest stage. In a shortlist dominated by some of the world’s most exciting talents, the Englishman’s inclusion is a testament to years of hard work, resilience, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
Brentford’s Ashley Cheatley: A Fairytale for the Underdogs
If Rice’s nomination was widely celebrated, the spotlight on Brentford’s Ashley Cheatley caused sheer shock—not least for Cheatley himself. Competing in the lower tiers of English football, Cheatley’s rise displays the romance and unpredictability that make football special.
The Marta Award: A Moment of Genius
Cheatley’s nomination for the Marta Award, which recognises the best goals in women’s football, came courtesy of a breathtaking bicycle kick in the FA Cup against Ascot United. Controlling a looping pass with her right foot before executing a spectacular overhead volley, Cheatley scored what she described as “the best goal of my life”.
The moment was not just about technical execution; it was a story of determination and seizing the big stage. Speaking after the nomination, Cheatley was still overwhelmed, humbly reflecting, “Proper players and me, it’s surreal”.
Reactions from the Football World
Cheatley’s teammates, the Brentford community, and fans were swept up in disbelief and pride at the recognition. The news became viral overnight, a testament to the power of social media amplifying local heroes on a global stage. Cheatley’s story resonates with every aspiring footballer who dreams of seeing their name juxtaposed with global greats.
Community, Shock, and Global Recognition
Unexpected Surprises
Both Rice and Cheatley serve as symbols for different kinds of footballing dreams: Rice, with his steady climb to the elite; Cheatley, with his Cinderella breakthrough. The shock expressed by Cheatley encapsulates the impact such recognition can have, not just on a player’s career but on the hopes of teams, communities, and young athletes everywhere.
Social and Club Support
For Rice, the nomination solidifies Arsenal’s position as a progressive and dynamic club, one that fosters talent. For Cheatley and Brentford, it’s a validation of their commitment to developing the women’s game and providing role models for a new generation.
The Nomination Process and Global Impact
How FIFA Chooses the Best
The Puskás and Marta Awards are determined by a mix of expert panels and fan votes, with a timeframe covering goals scored between August 2024 and August 2025. Public voting enhances engagement and makes the process inclusive, ensuring that moments of inspiration, like those from Rice and Cheatley, are immortalised by the footballing community worldwide.
Implications for the Future
These nominations set the stage for future generations, demonstrating that eye-catching moments, wherever they occur, can captivate the world. Whether a Champions League contender or a grassroots icon, the chance of global acclaim is there for every footballer willing to dare and deliver when it matters most.