Nunо Mеndеѕ has fіrmlу еѕtаblіѕhеd hіmѕеlf аѕ оnе of the brіghtеѕt rіѕіng stars in wоrld fооtbаll. The Portuguese and Paris Saint-Germain left-back played a pivotal role in helping his national team win the UEFA Nations League 2025, defeating Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout on Monday, June 9, 2025 (WIB).
At just 22 years of age, Mendes is already being hailed as one of the most complete full-backs in modern football. His combination of speed, tactical intelligence, and physical strength has made him a nightmare for elite wingers across Europe, and the 2024/2025 season has been nothing short of a breakthrough year for the Lisbon-born defender.
A Season to Remember: Champions League Glory & International Brilliance
The 2024/25 season saw Mendes elevate his game to an elite level. Not only did he help PSG capture their long-awaited first UEFA Champions League title, but he was also instrumental in Portugal’s triumphant run in the Nations League. His consistent brilliance on both ends of the pitch has earned him recognition as the blueprint of a modern full-back—dynamic, dependable, and decisive.
His mastery of the left flank is undeniable. Mendes’ blistering pace, combined with his relentless stamina, allows him to charge forward in attack and recover in defense without missing a beat. PSG head coach Luis Enrique has identified him as a crucial piece in his young, evolving squad, regularly deploying him as a key figure in both defensive and offensive transitions.
Shutting Down Lamine Yamal in a High-Stakes Final
One of the most anticipated battles of the Nations League final was between Mendes and Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who at 17 years old has been the talk of Europe thanks to his dazzling performances, including a stunner against France in the semifinals. But on the biggest stage, it was Mendes who stole the spotlight.
The Portuguese defender effectively neutralized Yamal’s threat throughout the match. He not only kept the Barcelona prodigy quiet but also outpaced and outsmarted him in key moments—most notably during the build-up to Cristiano Ronaldo’s equalizing goal, where Mendes’ explosive run left Yamal trailing behind. A second-half drag-back by Mendes also drew gasps from the crowd, a moment that underlined both his skill and confidence.
Thіѕ wasn’t thе fіrѕt tіmе Mеndеѕ hаѕ dominated top-tier wіngеrѕ. In PSG’s Champions League campaign, he shut down Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) and Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)—adding to his growing reputation as a world-class “winger slayer.”
Not Just a Defender: Mendes Scores in the Final
Nunо Mendes’ impact іn the final wаѕn’t confined tо dеfеnѕе. Hе ѕсоrеd a сruсіаl gоаl—а thunderous ѕtrіkе frоm оutѕіdе thе bоx thаt beat Sраnіѕh goalkeeper Unаі Sіmón, leveling the ѕсоrе аt 1-1. The goal was a testament to his offensive capabilities, showing that he’s just as dangerous in the final third as he is at the back.
His link-up play with Rafael Leão in the second half wreaked havoc on Spain’s right side. While Leão dazzled with flair and trickery, Mendes provided the engine and composure, ensuring Portugal maintained balance and width in their attacks.
As the match went into extra time, both teams created chances, but neither could find the winner. The game eventually moved to penalties, where Diogo Costa emerged as the hero—saving Álvaro Morata’s spot-kick and securing a 5-3 win for Portugal.
A Night to Silence the Critics—and Make a Statement
The victory was not only a statement of intent from Portugal’s next generation but also a response to the critics who have recently questioned Cristiano Ronaldo’s role in the squad. Dеѕріtе being ѕubbеd оff early duе tо іnjurу, Rоnаldо соntrіbutеd wіth a gоаl and lеаdеrѕhір оff thе ріtсh.
However, the spotlight firmly belonged to Nuno Mendes—a player who dominated both ends of the field and stood tall as the match’s standout performer. His contribution was so profound that many fans and pundits labeled him the Man of the Match.
Is Nuno Mendes on the Path to Ballon d’Or Contention?
Given his consistent form across club and international competitions, whispers of Ballon d’Or contention are beginning to surround Mendes. While defenders rarely get such nods, Mendes is changing the narrative with his game-changing displays and trophy-winning influence.
PSG have secured his services with a long-term deal, and under the guidance of Luis Enrique, his potential seems limitless. If he continues on this trajectory, Mendes could soon find himself not just as the world’s best left-back, but also among the top names in global football.
A Modern Full-Back Redefining the Game
In an era where full-backs are expected to be just as creative and attacking as midfielders, Nuno Mendes is proving that they can also be match-winners. His performances this season have been nothing short of extraordinary, combining technique, tenacity, and tactical acumen.
As he enters the prime years of his career, Nuno Mendes is no longer just a rising star—he’s a certified superstar. And if the 2024/25 season is any indication, the world of football better get used to seeing him at the top.
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