Benin forward Romaine Gandonou wins Goal of the Tournament at FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup

Benin striker Romaine Gandonou has been crowned the winner of the Goal of the Tournament award at the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland after her stunning free-kick against the host nation during the group stage.

Gandonou produced one of the standout individual moments of Benin’s historic campaign when she found the back of the net with a superb set-piece in the 87th minute of their final group-stage match against Poland.

Although the Beninese side were already trailing 4-0 at the time, Gandonou showed remarkable composure to take responsibility from the free-kick. Her effort proved too difficult to stop and immediately caught the attention of fans and football followers watching the tournament.

The quality of the strike ultimately earned the Amazons forward the prestigious Goal of the Tournament honour, providing a memorable highlight from Benin’s maiden appearance at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.

For Gandonou, the individual award represents a significant personal achievement on the global stage and highlights the attacking talent emerging from Benin’s women’s football programme.

The award also gives Benin a moment to celebrate from a campaign that otherwise ended in disappointment. The Amazons were unable to progress beyond the group stage after recording one draw and two defeats in their three matches.

Despite their early elimination, Gandonou’s spectacular free-kick ensured that Benin left the tournament with a moment that will be remembered. Her strike against Poland not only showcased her technical ability but also provided a powerful reminder of the talent available within Beninese women’s football.

Benin’s participation in Poland was historic in itself, marking the first time the country had reached the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. While the team could not secure a place in the knockout stages, Gandonou’s individual recognition has given the country a notable achievement to celebrate.

The Goal of the Tournament award is therefore a significant milestone for both the striker and Beninese women’s football, with Gandonou’s free-kick standing out as one of the competition’s most memorable moments.