Ajax’s new star, Mohammed Kudus was nicknamed ‘Alcantara’ in his youth football days, on Tuesday night he shared a pitch with his role model.
According to journalist Owuraku Ampofo, the 22-year-old received a Thiago Alcantara shirt signed by the Spanish midfielder and his then Bayern Munich teammates. Kudus was also nicknamed ‘Alcantara’ by his teammates during his youth football days.
On Tuesday night, he lined up against his childhood role model Thiago as his Ajax side took on Liverpool in the Champions League under the lights at Anfield.
Liverpool went ahead in the 17th minute after Diogo Jota found Mohamed Salah inside the penalty area, the Egypt star then showed great calmness to slot the ball into the back of the net.
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Kudus then announced himself on the biggest of stages as he was the one who scored the equaliser in the 27th minute. The Ghanaian was found unmarked as he latched onto a pull back by Steven Berghuis, Kudus then unleashed a pile-driver into the top corner which left Alisson unmoved.
Kudus drew plaudits for this overall performance on the night.
One fan said: "What a player this Kudus is for Ajax, great goal, great talent."
Another tweeted: "The way Kudus play, he go take MOTM after every game ! What a player."
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A third fan added: "Mohammed Kudus, the next big thing!"
Ajax looked like they have managed to hold on to a well earned point away at Anfield, however, Joel Matip had other ideas.
In the 89th minute, Kostas Tsimikas swung in a corner, which was perfect for Matip to head towards goal. The referee pointed towards his watch as the goal line technology stated that the ball was over the line, Anfield erupted with noise as Liverpool were minutes away from a much needed win.
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Jurgen Klopp’s men held on for a vital victory, their Champions League campaign is finally underway. The German was very critical of his side’s performance last week after they produced a lethargic display in their 4-1 defeat by Napoli.
Liverpool now have a double header against Rangers before travelling to the Johan Cruyff Arena to face Ajax again.
Topics: Liverpool, Ajax, Thiago Alcantara, Champions League
Marcus Chan