A Goal for the Ages: Lizbeth Ovalle’s Unforgettable Reverse Scorpion Kick
In a moment that will go down in football history, Lizbeth Ovalle, the Mexican winger for Tigres Femenil, left fans and pundits in awe with a stunning reverse scorpion kick during a match against Guadalajara. The goal, scored in the latter stages of the second half, not only secured a 2-0 victory for Tigres but also ignited a wave of excitement and speculation about the 2025 Puskas Award.
The Moment Unfolds
The action began when Spain’s Jenni Hermoso, a star player known even beyond the pitch for her controversial kiss with former Spain football chief Luis Rubiales, whipped in a precise cross from the right flank. The ball, curling in a teasing arc, seemed to be bending just out of Ovalle’s reach. However, in a moment of pure brilliance, Ovalle flung both legs out and twisted her body in mid-air, executing a reverse scorpion kick that saw the ball make perfect contact with her heel and loop over the Guadalajara goalkeeper, Blanca Felix, before nestling in the top corner.
An Elation of Disbelief
The immediate reaction to Ovalle’s goal was a mix of shock and disbelief. Even Ovalle herself appeared stunned by the sheer audacity of her finish. Fans and pundits alike took to social media to express their amazement. One commenter wrote, "Close the Puskas Award, it’s over." Another added, "Genuinely might be the best show of technique I’ve seen in a goal." The remarks highlighted the unprecedented nature of the goal, with some even declaring it the greatest goal in football history.
The Puskas and Marta Awards: A Brief Overview
The Puskas Award, named after the legendary Real Madrid striker Ferenc Puskas, has long been a prestigious accolade in men’s football, recognizing the best goal of the year. Notable winners include Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and Olivier Giroud. The newly formed Marta Award, on the other hand, focuses on women’s football and was won by Brazilian icon Marta for the first time last year. Given the extraordinary nature of Ovalle’s goal, there is a strong consensus that she will be among the favorites to take home the 2025 Marta Award.
A Triumph for Tigres Femenil
While the immediate focus has been on Ovalle’s goal, it’s important to note the impact it had on the match. Ovalle’s goal not only opened the scoring but also set the tone for the rest of the game. Just four minutes later, she set up her side’s second goal, securing a convincing 2-0 victory for Tigres Femenil over Guadalajara. The win was significant as it lifted Tigres above their opponents in the league standings, adding a layer of importance to Ovalle’s individual brilliance.
A Star in the Making
Lizbeth Ovalle, a 25-year-old who has represented Mexico 58 times, has been a standout player for both club and country. Her goal against Guadalajara is a testament to her skill, creativity, and composure under pressure. The official X account of Tigres Femenil even cheekily suggested to FIFA, "Hey Fifa, we have a nominee for you for the Puskas Award. Correction, Marta Award." While the ultimate recognition for her goal will come in due time, Ovalle’s performance has already cemented her place in the hearts of football fans around the world. For now, she will continue to revel in the three points her side earned, knowing that she has created a moment that will be remembered for years to come.
