It was one of those unmissable matches, with Cruzeiro and America battling it out in the Mineiro Clasico on 4 February 2018. With the second half ticking by, it remained scoreless in what was a very tight game.

That was until the 68th minute when those present witnessed a moment of magic from Giorgian de Arrascaeta, the Uruguayan attacking midfielder known for his creativity and sublime touch.

It started with Edilson breaking down the right and floating a measured cross into the box. The 24-year-old La Celeste international, who normally operates behind the strikers, had surged forward in anticipation. Approaching the penalty spot, he launched himself in the air, executing a horizontal scissor kick that sent the ball into the top corner and the Cruzeiro fans into ecstasy.

“When you’re in the throes of a game you sometimes have extreme situations, and at that moment I thought it was my best option. I’d tried it in some other games, but it had never come off, until then that is,” he told FIFA.com, recalling the incident and what passed through his head after converting in such spectacular style.

Does Giorgian de Arrascaeta's goal get your vote for the 2018 FIFA Puskás Award?

Despite America’s efforts to get back in the game, Cruzeiro withstood their opponent’s late onslaught and secured a valuable victory thanks to De Arrascaeta’s wonder goal.

"It was a significant moment, coming as it did in a Clasico. It was a beautiful goal and it resonated quite a lot in Brazil and Uruguay, so I knew I could be nominated for the Puskás Award. That said, in any year you have many beautiful goals scored all over the world, so I'm very happy and thrilled to be on the shortlist.

"A goal like this brings a lot of enjoyment, and more so now that I’ve been nominated. Since I was a kid, it was always my dream to play for a big team with legions of fans. And fortunately, over time I’ve come to experience that thanks to sacrifice and effort.” Giorgian de Arrascaeta