‘Best of his career’ – Euro media press goes wild after what Tottenham player did last night on national duty
Tottenham Hotspur winger Dejan Kulusevski showcased his talents once again during Sweden’s UEFA Nations League match against Slovakia, which ended in a 2-2 draw.
Playing at Stadion Tehelné Pole, Kulusevski delivered a strong performance, continuing his impressive form both for his country and his club. Although he didn’t contribute directly to the scoreline with a goal or assist, his presence on the pitch was undeniable, consistently threatening Slovakia’s defense from the right-hand side.
Kulusevski has emerged as a key player for Spurs under Ange Postecoglou. While his Premier League numbers show just one goal and one assist in six starts, the Swedish winger’s overall contributions on the field have been invaluable.
However, Postecoglou will undoubtedly expect more in terms of goal output as the season progresses, considering Kulusevski’s potential.
Despite his modest statistics, his influence on the game has often been felt beyond the numbers, and that was certainly the case in his latest international outing.
Swedish newspaper Dagens Nyheter hailed Kulusevski’s current run of form, describing him as being in “the form of his life.” That description seemed apt as he constantly applied pressure on Slovakia’s defense.
Early in the match, he showcased his versatility, drifting into central areas and creating scoring opportunities. In the 16th minute, he made his presence felt with a left-footed shot inside the box that was unfortunately blocked.
Later, he nearly set up Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres with a floated cross, but the header went wide of the target.
Kulusevski remained a constant attacking threat, attempting seven shots throughout the match, with two of them hitting the target. His ability to cut inside from the right wing and create chances for himself and others was on full display.
On several occasions, he came close to scoring, including a notable effort just after Sweden went 2-0 up, where his left-footed shot from outside the box was again blocked. If that shot had gone in, Slovakia might have struggled to stage their eventual comeback.
Despite his lack of goal involvement, Kulusevski was involved in much of Sweden’s attacking play, registering three key passes and completing three successful dribbles, according to WhoScored.com.
His work rate and determination to break through Slovakia’s defense were evident throughout the game, even as Sweden let a two-goal lead slip. The game may have ended in disappointment for Sweden, but for Spurs fans, Kulusevski’s performance was encouraging.
His ability to contribute creatively and consistently challenge defenders bodes well for his future performances in the Premier League.
The draw will certainly leave Sweden frustrated, as they were in control for much of the match. They led 2-0 comfortably before conceding a goal just before halftime.
The second half saw Slovakia grow into the game, ultimately equalizing and preventing Sweden from claiming all three points. Nonetheless, Kulusevski’s standout display should give his club confidence as he returns to Tottenham after the international break.
For Tottenham, Kulusevski’s international form could signal that he’s on the verge of finding another gear. As the season continues, Spurs will need him to translate these performances into more direct goal contributions in the Premier League.
Given the trust that Postecoglou has placed in him, it is likely only a matter of time before he starts making a more tangible impact on the scoresheet.
Whether cutting in from the right or creating space for his teammates, Kulusevski has proven he can influence games, and Spurs fans will be eager to see him reach his full potential as the campaign unfolds.