There has been an outpouring of praise for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) defender Nuno Mendes, 23, who completely blocked Spain's 'comet' Lamine Yamal, 18, of Barcelona.

On the 9th (Korean time), Mendes started the match at the Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany, contributing to Portugal's victory in the final against Spain in the 2024-2025 UEFA Nations League (UNL).

The match ended in a 2-2 draw after regular time and extra time. However, in the penalty shootout, Portugal won against Spain, lifting the championship trophy. Cristiano Ronaldo, 40, of Al Nassr contributed to the team's victory with an equalizer that made it 2-2.

British media outlet Goal.com praised Mendes after the match. They noted, "He scored a fantastic equalizer in the 26th minute of the first half when the team was trailing 0-1, and the second goal also started from his breakthrough, emphasizing his outstanding performance in defense as he thoroughly blocked Yamal."

Mendes made a crucial contribution to the team's victory against Spain, both offensively and defensively. He was also awarded the Player of the Match (POTM) after the game.

In particular, Mendes thoroughly blocked Yamal, who has emerged as the focal point and ace of the opposing team's attack. In some scenes, Mendes even appeared to toy with Yamal, showcasing just how thoroughly he neutralized him.

Seventeen-year-old Yamal, hailing from Barcelona and a rising star of Spain, was compared to Lionel Messi, 38, of Inter Miami. Despite his young age, he has infused the team with energy and has been recognized as a top prospect. There are even discussions about his potential to become the youngest winner of the Ballon d'Or.

However, Yamal, who played 105 minutes that day, couldn't make much impact. He had four shots, two of which were on target, but were all saved. Ten dribbles were stopped. He created only one scoring opportunity and succeeded in one out of two dribbles.

Mendes effectively blocked Yamal's attacking routes, revealing his lack of experience. Mendes has also led PSG to Champions League victory by blocking players like Mohamed Salah of Liverpool and Bukayo Saka of Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League.

Some fans commented on the matchup between Mendes and Yamal that day, saying, "Mendes made Yamal look like a 17-year-old." This implies that Yamal, who has displayed mature play until now, was merely a child in front of Mendes.

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