All Whites winger Elijah Just has been nominated for the FIFA World Cup's goal of the tournament for his spectacular volley against Iran, becoming the first Kiwi to be shortlisted for the award.
Just’s goal is one of 12 selected by FIFA, and is up against goals scored by some of football’s biggest names including Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland and Lionel Messi.
The 26-year-old enjoyed a breakout World Cup campaign,, scoring three goals for the All Whites including his nominated strike which came during New Zealand's 2-2 draw with Iran.
During the sixth minute of the match, Just flicked the ball up before unleashing a powerful right-foot volley into the back of the net to give New Zealand their first goal of the World Cup.
The 24-year-old kick-started New Zealand's campaign with a nice volley in the early stages against Iran. (Source: TVNZ)
Speaking after the match, Just said it was "really, really special" to score in a World Cup match.
"It's not something that I could have ever dreamt of," Just said at the time.
"I'm just so happy. One was nice, and to do it twice is just amazing."
The description for the goal on FIFA's website read: "New Zealand's Elijah Just and Chris Wood proved a deadly duo in this superbly worked effort."
Also in contention for the award are Ferran Torres’ extra-time winner for Spain in the World Cup final, Mbappé's rocket group-stage goal against Senegal and Jude Bellingham's clever finish against France in the third-place playoff.
The winning goal will be decided by a fan vote, with fans able to vote for the winner on FIFA’s website.
TVNZ announced today it had secured the rights to screen the 2030 tournament.
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