Stunning Super Cup Twist: PSG Rally from 2-0 Down to Edge Spurs on Penalties

The 2025 UEFA Super Cup will be remembered as one of the most exhilarating in recent history. Paris Saint-Germain overturned a 2-0 deficit to draw level in stoppage time before edging Tottenham Hotspur 4-3 in a nail-biting penalty shootout in Udine. The win marks PSG’s first-ever Super Cup title, capping a night of resilience, tactical gambles, and high-stakes drama.

First Half: Spurs Take Control

From the opening whistle, Tottenham looked sharper and more composed. Their pressing game frustrated PSG’s midfield, forcing errors and breaking up passing rhythms. The breakthrough came in the 41st minute, when Micky van de Ven rose highest to meet a pinpoint corner delivery, powering a header past Gianluigi Donnarumma.

The goal seemed to shake PSG, but rather than regroup, they were hit again early in the second half. In the 53rd minute, Cristian Romero—newly appointed captain—latched onto another set-piece, heading home from close range. At 2-0, Spurs appeared in complete control, their defensive structure holding firm and their transitions looking dangerous.

Second Half Shift: PSG’s Fightback

PSG manager Luis Enrique reacted by introducing fresh legs, with Lee Kang-in and Warren Zaïre-Emery injecting pace and urgency. The French champions began committing more men forward, forcing Spurs deeper into their own half.

The pressure finally paid off in the 85th minute when Lee Kang-in unleashed a thunderous left-footed strike from outside the box, beating Guglielmo Vicario at full stretch. Suddenly, the momentum shifted.

Deep into stoppage time, with Tottenham defending desperately, Gonçalo Ramos found space between two defenders and met Achraf Hakimi’s curling cross with a precise header to level the game at 2-2 in the 94th minute. The equalizer sent the PSG fans into raptures and forced the match straight to penalties.

Penalty Shootout Drama

The shootout was tense from the start. Vitinha missed PSG’s opening penalty, handing Spurs an early advantage. However, Micky van de Ven’s attempt was saved by Donnarumma, and moments later, Mathys Tel also failed to convert for Spurs.

With the scores tied at 3-3 in the shootout, Nuno Mendes stepped up for PSG’s final kick. Showing ice-cold composure, the left-back slotted the ball into the bottom corner, sealing a 4-3 shootout victory and sparking wild celebrations.

Key Tactical Notes

• Tottenham’s Set-Piece Mastery: Both regulation-time goals came from corners, showcasing their aerial dominance.

• PSG’s Late Surge: The introduction of Lee Kang-in changed the tempo, stretching Spurs’ defense and creating space for Ramos.

• Fatigue Factor: Spurs visibly tired in the final 15 minutes, losing their defensive compactness and allowing PSG to dictate the closing stages.

Star Performers

• Lee Kang-in (PSG): Game-changer with a stunning goal and relentless energy in attack.

• Gianluigi Donnarumma (PSG): Key saves in regulation and the shootout.

• Micky van de Ven (Spurs): Strong at the back and a scoring threat from set pieces.

Historic Night for PSG

This victory is not just another trophy—it’s a statement. PSG proved their mental toughness on a big European stage, something critics have long questioned. For Tottenham, while the result stings, the performance—particularly in the first hour—offers optimism for the season ahead.

For full UEFA Super Cup history and context, visit UEFA’s official competition page.
Detailed player ratings and tactical breakdowns are available from Reuters’ post-match report.