James Rodriguez collected the FIFA Puskas award after having polled the most votes for the best goal of 2014 in last night's gala in Zurich. The Colombian's spectacular volley against Uruguay during the 2014 World Cup finals in Brazil was elected the best of the 10 goals nominated during the ceremony, the 10 candidates' goal were whittled down to the three best - James' volley against Uruguay, Stephanie Roche's exquisite strike for Peamount United against Wexford United and Robin van Persie's unforgettable diving header for Holland in the group stage meeting with Spain at 2014 Brazil.
James Rodriguez collected the FIFA Puskás award after having polled the most votes for the best goal of 2014 in last night’s gala in Zurich. The Colombian’s spectacular volley against Uruguay during the 2014 World Cup finals in Brazil was elected the best of the 10 goals nominated during the ceremony, the 10 candidates’ goal were whittled down to the three best - James’ volley against Uruguay, Stephanie Roche’s exquisite strike for Peamount United against Wexford United and Robin van Persie’s unforgettable diving header for Holland in the group stage meeting with Spain at 2014 Brazil.
James’ goal polled 42 per cent of the votes, van Persie’s gained 32 per cent while Roche’s, with over a million votes, took an 11 per cent share of the voting.
After accepting the award, the Real Madrid player gave an acceptance speech, saying, “First I have to thank everyone who voted, I dedicate this award to them and to the whole of Colombia. The truth is, the only words I have right now are ones of happiness”.
James’ goal also impressed the window of the man who the award is honoured by, Ferenc Puskás: “Of course I hope that James wins,” said Erzsébet Puskás, “He plays for Real Madrid and he wears the number 10 shirt – just like my late husband”.