In a jaw-dropping moment that left soccer fans in Brazil in sheer disbelief, Volta Redonda secured a memorable 1-0 win over Fluminense in the Taça Guanabara on Thursday. The match, part of the Campeonato Carioca, saw an extraordinary sequence of acrobatic skill when Volta’s Mirandinha, also known as Luiz Carlos Paulino de Carvalho, netted the decisive goal with a bicycle kick, following a stunning bicycle kick assist from his teammate Bruno Santos.
Fluminense’s Red Card and the Tense Battle
The game had been a tense affair, with neither team able to break the deadlock for most of the match. Fluminense, who were heavy favorites, found themselves at a numerical disadvantage after the 62nd minute when Manoel was shown a straight red card.
Despite the one-man advantage, Volta Redonda was unable to capitalize until the 87th minute, when Bruno Santos sent a mesmerizing bicycle kick assist to Mirandinha. Without hesitation, the forward executed an equally spectacular bicycle kick to send the ball into the back of the net, securing a historic win for Volta.
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Fans React to the Sensational Goal
The electric atmosphere at the Estádio Municipal General Raulino de Oliveira erupted as fans witnessed the once-in-a-lifetime goal, celebrating their team’s stunning upset over their more established rivals. The victory was especially sweet for Volta Redonda, who had put up a determined fight despite the odds.
Fans on social media couldn’t stop raving about the exceptional goal. “I’ve been daydreaming about this my whole life,” one enthusiast remarked, while another said, “That’s the Puskas wrapped up, everyone go home.” The FIFA Puskas Award, given to the best goal of the year, seemed to already have a clear frontrunner, even though it was just January. Many fans felt the stunning double bicycle kick had already sealed the honor for 2025.
The Race for the Puskas Award in 2025
“This might be the best goal I’ve ever seen,” one user commented, while others echoed the sentiment with, “That’s the Puskas wrapped up, everyone go home.” The consensus was clear—Mirandinha’s goal had left an indelible mark on Brazilian soccer.
Looking ahead, Volta Redonda will now take on Bangu Atlético Clube this Sunday, while Fluminense will face Maricá Futebol Clube on Saturday. Regardless of the upcoming matches, one thing is certain: this unforgettable moment will live on in soccer history for years to come.
Fans are already in awe of the incredible feat, and it’s safe to say that the pursuit of the Puskas Award in 2025 may have already found its winner. But as always, soccer continues to surprise us, and there’s no telling what astonishing moments the rest of the year may bring.
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