Driss El Jabali has emerged as a primary candidate for the FIFA Puskas Award following a stunning rabona goal for Maghreb Fez. The defender’s strike during a recent Moroccan league match against Wydad AC has captured global attention.
The match, part of the 12th round of the Moroccan league, took place at the Complexe sportif de Fez. The contest remained deadlocked deep into the second half before the breakthrough occurred.
In the 80th minute, Adam Brika provided a pass to El Jabali on the perimeter of the penalty area. The defender found himself positioned on his less dominant foot, creating a difficult opportunity for a standard shot.
Instead of a conventional strike, El Jabali executed a precise rabona. The ball bypassed Wydad AC goalkeeper El Mehdi Benabid to find the back of the net.
The sudden technical brilliance of the goal left spectators and teammates in a state of disbelief. The strike serves as a highlight for the league's recent competitive standard.
Maghreb Fez secures league summit
The 1-0 victory was the sole goal of the encounter. This result allowed Maghreb Fez to climb to the top of the championship standings, accumulating 31 points.
This victory provides a vital boost to the club's pursuit of domestic glory. Maghreb Fez is currently attempting to end a championship drought that has lasted more than 40 years.
The win strengthens their position as title contenders in the Moroccan top flight. The club's recent form places them in a commanding lead as the season progresses.
The goal's impact extends beyond the local league. The technical quality of the play has placed El Jabali in the conversation for the annual Puskas Award, which recognizes the best goal of the year.
He joins a list of notable players who have achieved international recognition through similar high-skill maneuvers, such as 2021 winner Erik Lamela. The performance has brought significant international eyes to the Moroccan league's technical proficiency.
The victory at the Complexe sportif de Fez marks a pivotal moment for the Maghreb Fez squad. By securing the top spot in the table, the team has signaled its intent to reclaim its place among the giants of Moroccan football.
