Persija Jakarta defender Rizky Ridho has been nominated for the FIFA Puskas Award 2025 for his spectacular goal against Arema FC. Rival supporters like Persib's Bobotoh are uniting with Jakmania to win the vote. The nomination places him alongside stars like Lamine Yamal and Declan Rice.
Rizky Ridho's long-range goal occurred during the Liga 1 2024/2025 match between Persija Jakarta and Arema FC on March 9, 2025. Receiving the ball in midfield, Ridho unleashed a curling shot after spotting Arema goalkeeper Lucas Frigeri out of position. The ball sailed perfectly into the net, catching FIFA's attention and earning a nomination for the Puskas Award 2025 announced on November 14, 2025.
Ridho is the only Southeast Asian player on the list, competing against big names like Barcelona's Lamine Yamal and Arsenal's Declan Rice. This gives him a chance to match Mohd Faiz Subri, the Malaysian striker who won in 2016 with an iconic knuckleball free kick.
"I am proud and grateful to be nominated for the Puskas Award. This is a dream for many footballers and I never thought I could reach this stage," Ridho said. Timnas Indonesia U-23 coach Indra Sjafri praised it: "Out of all the goals, I think Ridho's is the best."
Cross-club fan solidarity is evident. Instagram account @plespol.inc posted: "Respect. Let's unite our strength!!! Let's bring the Puskas Award trophy to Indonesia!!!" Persib Bandung's Bobotoh supporters are ready to vote despite Ridho playing for rival Persija. One netizen commented: "Jakmania supported Persib in ACL 2, now it's our turn as Bobotoh to support Ridho in the Puskas Award."
Voting is open on FIFA's official site until December 9, 2025. A win would make Ridho the first Indonesian to claim the Puskas Award and a symbol of Southeast Asian football's resurgence.