Dom Ballard puts Puskas 2026 prize in early view

Dom Ballard has given Bristol City an early contender for the 2026 Puskas award with a finish that has eclipsed the rest of the match. The 21-year-old striker produced a rare backheel volley into the top corner, turning a routine attacking move into one of the season’s most striking goals so far.

Ballard scored in the 85th minute of Bristol City’s Championship meeting with Birmingham. Rio Cardines supplied the cross, after Ballard anticipated another delivery from his team-mate and tried the improvised finish. The goal put Bristol City ahead, but it did not secure the victory.

Birmingham levelled from the penalty spot during stoppage time, leaving the second-matchday fixture at 2-2. Bristol City therefore had to settle for a point after leading late, while Ballard’s individual moment became the lasting talking point from the game.

The result means neither side took all three points from the early Championship contest. For Ballard, however, the goal has created immediate attention beyond the league standings. His effort combined the difficulty of the technique with the precision of its placement, making it a strong early entry in discussions around the 2026 Puskas prize.