About Wendell Lira

On March 11, 2015, Wendell Lira scored an amazing goal in the Goianio 1 tournament in Brazil. However, he never would have thought that months later he would be nominated for the Puskas Award for the best goal of the year, and even surpass Lionel Messi in the final selection. So, who is Wendell Lira?

Early Life and Career

Wendell Lira was born on January 7, 1989 in Goiania. He is 27 years old and made his official debut in 2007 with Goias in the Brasileirao. He has also played for Fortaleza, Goianesia, URT, and Tombense last year. This year, he will play for Vila Nova.

The Award-Winning Goal

Let's remember the goal that earned him the Puskas Award. Wendell Lira, playing for Goianesia, opened the scoring against Atlético Goianense in the state tournament. The midfielder soared and executed a half-turn in the air after a brilliant assist.

“When I received the news, I didn't believe it at first. Then my wife called me crying, and I started crying with her. I couldn't believe it, it was very emotional," Wendell Lira said at the time when he heard about his nomination.

Wendell Lira's goal received the most votes from 1.6 million internet users. He not only beat Lionel Messi, but also Alessandro Florenzi, who scored a superb goal from over 40 meters away for Roma against Barcelona in the Champions League.

Wendell Lira, who went from unemployment in 2015 to rubbing shoulders with soccer stars, received the award with tears in his eyes. "I want to thank everyone for this moment, one of the best in my life, sharing these moments with all these great players," he said upon receiving the award.

Finalists for the 2015 Puskas Award