CHARLOTTE-On April 27th, 2018, Charlotte FC’s Riley McGree scored a goal so extraordinary that it was nominated for FIFA’s prestigious Puskas Award, which recognizes the “most beautiful” goal of the calendar year.
The Australian midfielder executed the incredible scorpion kick while on loan with A-League side Newcastle Jets, and it has been described as the A-League’s greatest-ever goal.
“It was definitely a crazy moment and something I will never forget,” said McGree, who is currently on loan with English Championship side Birmingham City.
The goal that was not only beautiful enough to garner international acclaim, but it was also highly significant in the match: it served as the equalizer in a crucial A-League playoff that the Newcastle Jets would eventually win.
“There were a whole lot of emotions, especially with the crowd and the context of the game,” said the 22-year-old. “We went on to win, so it was an uplifting feeling to score that one, for sure.”
