FIFA Unveils 2026 Goal of the Year Shortlist

FIFA unveiled the complete list of contenders for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Hyundai Goal of the Tournament ahead of Sunday’s final match between Argentina and Spain.

Six final nominees from the quarter-finals and semi-finals completed the shortlist, setting the stage for fans to decide the overall winner after the tournament concludes.

The governing body confirmed that fans voted Julian Alvarez’s dramatic extra-time strike during Argentina’s 3-1 victory over Switzerland as the top goal of the late knockout rounds, capturing 37.2 per cent of the vote.

The selection process occurred in phases throughout the tournament, allowing supporters to vote after the group stage, round of 32, round of 16, and the final elimination rounds.

FIFA (News Central TV) — FIFA unveils 2026 goal of the year shortlist. Credit: Reuters

Phase winners headlining the ultimate shortlist include Uzbekistan’s Eldor Shomurodov for an inch-perfect group-stage lob and Cabo Verde’s Sidny Lopes Cabral for a magnificent curled finish against Argentina.

Norway’s Erling Haaland also secured a spot with a powerful three-touch thunderbolt against Brazil, joining Alvarez and other global stars competing for the tournament’s top individual visual honour.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.