XtraTime Web Desk: The 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia treated football lovers to 169 goals in 64 matches– and fans around the world have chosen Benjamin Pavard’s screamer as the best of the tournament.
In an online poll where over three million FIFA.com users casted their votes, Pavard’s outside-of-the-foot rocket for France against Argentina, in which the 22-year-old displayed marvellous technique, has been voted the Hyundai Goal of the Tournament.
The goal selected by FIFA.com users was France’s equaliser against Argentina in the Round of 16, which levelled the game at 2-2 as Les Bleus went on to record a 4-3 victory in Kazan and book their place in the quarter-finals.
Pavard becomes the first European player to win the Goal of the Tournament accolade since its creation in 2006. At Brazil 2014, it was bestowed on eventual adidas Golden Boot winner James Rodriguez, whose dipping volley also later earned him the 2014 FIFA Puskas Award. Other previous winners include Maxi Rodriguez of Argentina and Diego Forlan of Uruguay winning in 2006 and 2010 respectively.