Mohammed Kudus Shines in UEFA Super Cup, Dominating Nuno Mendes in First Half, Video
- The Ghanaian midfielder made a high-profile transfer to Tottenham Hotspur ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season
- Mohammed Kudus scored 27 goals in all competitions for Dutch giants FC Ajax before moving to West Ham United
- Mohammed Kudus impressed in his first competitive match for Tottenham Hotspur as Paris Saint-Germain won the Super Cup 2025
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In the UEFA Super Cup clash between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Tottenham Hotspur at the Bluenergy Stadium in Udine, Italy, it was the 24-year-old summer signing from West Ham, Mohammed Kudus, who stole the spotlight in the first half.
Kudus showcased his incredible skill, speed, and physical strength, leaving PSG’s Nuno Mendes struggling to cope with the attacking dynamo’s flair.
Spurs fans stunned by Kudus’s strength
Supporters and social media lit up in response to Kudus's performance, marveling at his combination of power and finesse.
One fan captured the moment perfectly: “Nuno Mendes thought he was strong, then he met Mohammed Kudus.” Sofascore stats back it up: 11 ground duels won, 100% accuracy on crosses, and key passes that kept creating danger.
These numbers underline why he’s being hailed as a game-changer. Fans also pointed out his fearless drive and ability to shrug off challenges, traits often missing in the Premier League, making many hopeful that he’ll become a quick fan favorite in North London.
Source: Getty Images
Tottenham, with the momentum of Kudus’s brilliant individual performance, took the lead through Micky van de Ven in the 39th minute, according to Flashscore. The goal came directly from a free-kick Kudus had earned after outmuscling Mendes in a one-on-one battle.
It was clear from the outset that Kudus, who debuted a new hairstyle, was in no mood to be intimidated by the French champions.
The attacking midfielder, known for his explosive pace and ball control, made his presence felt early on with his powerful runs and fearless approach in tight situations.
Time and again, Kudus exhibited his ability to glide past defenders, using his quick feet to evade the attention of PSG’s backline. However, it was his duel with Nuno Mendes that really caught the eye.
Source: Getty Images
On two notable occasions in the first half, Kudus left Mendes in his wake. His pace was simply too much for the Portuguese full-back to handle.
The first instance came in the 38th minute, when Kudus sped past Mendes on the left wing, drawing a foul from the defender. The challenge was late, and referee decisions resulted in a free-kick for Spurs in a dangerous area just outside the PSG half.
The resulting free-kick led to an unlikely source of Spurs’ first goal. Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario took the kick, launching it into the box, where it was initially saved, but the ball fell to Micky van de Ven.
The Dutch defender reacted quickly, pouncing on the rebound and slotting the ball into the net to give Spurs the 1-0 lead.
Watch the video of Kudus' magical play below.
Although the assist didn’t go directly to the Ghanaian, who excelled in his first competitive Spurs start, his role in winning the free-kick demonstrated the kind of dangerous player he can be in transitional moments.
In the 44th minute, the former Ajax player smoothly dribbled past the Portuguese defender and delivered a cross into the box, but his teammates couldn't capitalise on it as PSG cleared the ball.
Nuno Mendes, who is known for his speed and defensive acumen, struggled to contain Kudus as the first half unfolded.
The Black Stars of Ghana's midfield maestro, who netted 5 goals and provided 4 assists last season, as per Transfermarkt, was greeted with loud applause from the Spurs fans as he exited in the 76th minute.
Defender Cristian Romero increased Tottenham's lead early in the second half, but in the end, Paris Saint-Germain staged a great comeback to score twice through two substitutes, Lee Kang-in and Goncalo Ramos, forcing a penalty shootout after the game ended 2-2 in 90 minutes.
The French side would clinch the Super Cup 2025, winning 3-2 on penalties.
Kudus performed well against Newcastle
As reported earlier by YEN.com.gh, Ghanaian star Mohammed Kudus continued to make an impression in a pre-season match against Newcastle United.
Coming on in the 65th minute to replace Son Heung-min, the former Ajax midfielder played a pivotal role in helping Tottenham secure a 1-1 draw, solidifying his reputation as a key player on the field.
Source: YEN.com.gh
