Mohammed Kudus’s first Tottenham goal secures victory and boosts his confidence ahead of Aston Villa test
Mohammed Kudus finally has his first Tottenham goal, and it could not have come at a better time. The Ghanaian international struck the winner in Spurs’ 2-1 victory at Elland Road, capping off a strong performance that showed both his quality and his growing importance to Thomas Frank’s side.
Kudus, who joined Tottenham in the summer after an eye-catching spell at West Ham, has been lively since arriving at N17 but had to wait until this weekend to open his account. His effort against Leeds, deflecting past goalkeeper Illan Meslier to seal the points, now gives him the confidence boost he has been waiting for.
After the game, Kudus admitted he had been eager to find the net and was quick to give credit to his teammate Mathys Tel, who opened the scoring with his first strike of the season. The two forwards linked well throughout the contest and could yet form a dangerous partnership for Spurs in the coming months.
New kid on the block.
Here is what he had to say post game [h/t BBC]:
I’ve definitely been waiting [for my first Tottenham goal]. As an attacker it boosts your confidence when you score.”
“I want to give my team-mate [Mathys Tel] some credit. I am a big fan of how he trains and how he has kept on going.”
“We now go to represent our country and come back with the same focus. This is a big step in the right direction.”
Kudus’ versatility is part of what makes him such a valuable addition to Frank’s squad. He can operate from wide areas, drop deep into midfield, or play up front, giving the coach plenty of tactical flexibility. Against Leeds, he showed both his technical quality and his determination to keep driving at defenders until the chance fell his way.
For the 25-year-old, this goal is about more than getting off the mark. Spurs bought him to make and create a difference and that is exactly what has has done so far. To top his performance off with a goal is just brilliant. 7 games, one decisive goal and five assists. Top stuff from the player.
Tottenham now turn their focus to Aston Villa at home on October 19. Kudus will come back from Ghana duty with more belief, and fans will hope his goal at Leeds is the start of a strong run for both him and the team as the season moves forward.