The three nominees for The Best FIFA Women’s Player Award have been announced, with a gold medal winner taking her place alongside two global superstars. Melanie Behringer’s tireless goal-laden performances in Brazil helped guide Germany to their first Women’s Olympic Football Tournament gold, with 2015 FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year Carli Lloydenjoying another prolific season in front of goal for USA. Marta,five-time queen of the women’s game, takes her place in the final three for the 12th time in 13 years.

Germany’s crowning achievement of 2016, their gold medal win in the Maracana, had its foundations in the goals and performances of Behringer. The No7 scored some crucial goals, including a stunning quarter-final winner against China PR, and her tireless performances embodied the spirit of DFB-Frauen on their road to Rio 2016 glory.

Last year’s Women’s World Player of the Year Lloydonce more stood out amongst a galaxy of stars in the USWNT, scoring 17 goals in the calendar year. Ultimately, the Houston Dash and USA No10 would taste disappointment in Brazil, exiting on penalties to Sweden in the quarter-finals, but her efforts during her time at Rio 2016 certainly saw her stand out as one of the top performers.

Martawas the poster-girl for the hosts’ hopes of glory at the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Rio 2016, captaining the side to a heart-wrenching fourth place after defeat in the bronze medal match to Canada. The iconic, five-time Women’s World Player of the Year shone in a Seleção side that attacked with verve and vigour. Her impassioned, tearful plea into a television camera after her side’s semi-final defeat to Sweden captivated the nation, which took the women’s team to their hearts during the tournament.

The winner of The Best FIFA Women’s Player Award, decided in equal measure by votes from captains and coaches of national teams, select members of the media and fans voting on FIFA.com, will be presented with the award at the ceremony in Zurich on Monday 9 January. Make sure to check back on FIFA.com and on social media - @FIFAcomand @FIFAWWC using#TheBest,on Instagram and the official FIFA Football Awards Facebook page– to see who is The Best Women’s Player.