Driss El Jabali, a defender for MAS Fes in Morocco, has achieved something remarkable that quickly went viral and made waves across the globe. Emerging from the Moroccan league, he has potentially scored the goal of the year. Although the year has just begun, there have already been moments that seem destined to clinch all the accolades, and one particularly unexpected and brilliant play has shaken the football community: a central defender executed a rabona from outside the penalty area right into the top corner of the net. This extraordinary feat could easily find itself among the nominees for the prestigious Puskás Award.
This stunning play occurred during a key match in the local tournament, where MAS Fes faced off against Wydad Casablanca, one of the giants in Moroccan football. With a high-stakes atmosphere and the top position in the league at stake, the match seemed to be heading toward a goalless draw that would never break. However, ten minutes before the final whistle, El Jabali made a move that changed everything.
When he spotted a loose ball just outside the area, instead of opting for a safer shot, he decided to go for something entirely different and unprecedented: he executed a left-footed rabona that flew straight into the right corner of the net. The rival goalkeeper barely had time to react as he watched the ball sail into a virtually impossible spot, given the surprise of the execution. The stadium erupted immediately, and within moments, the images began circulating on social media.
Beyond its aesthetic impact, the goal held significant importance in a sporting context. MAS Fes secured a crucial 1-0 victory, maintaining their unbeaten streak and gaining a vital lead at the top of the league table, especially against a direct rival like Wydad. Without a doubt, this goal will be nominated among the best goals of 2026, and the chances of winning the award are quite high. Will there be a better goal this year?
It’s worth noting that the 2025 Puskás Award was won by Santiago Montiel, a winger from Independiente de Avellaneda, after his stunning bicycle kick from outside the area against Independiente Rivadavia in the round of 16 of the Apertura Tournament, marking a historic moment for Argentine football.
As reported by mdzol.com.
