Kudus Shines in Tottenham's League Cup Exit to Liverpool

Mohammed Kudus finally heard his name in a Tottenham starting XI again in England – and it had been a long time coming.

The Ghanaian forward made his first start for the London club in 257 days, thrown into the heat of a third‑round English League Cup tie against Liverpool at Anfield. For 75 minutes, he chased, pressed and searched for a moment to change the game. It almost came.

Tottenham were already 1–0 down when Kudus found his big chance in the 32nd minute. The move opened up for him, the angle looked kind, and from close range he had the opportunity to drag his team level. Instead, his effort flew over the bar. A brief silence from the away end, a groan, and then the game moved on without mercy.

Kudus stayed busy between the lines, trying to knit attacks together and stretch Liverpool’s back line. But as the night wore on, Liverpool tightened their grip. The pressure told on the scoreboard, not in Kudus’ favour.

After 75 minutes, his evening was over. The 26‑year‑old made way for new signing Savio, a clear sign that Tottenham’s coaching staff are still juggling options in the final third. By full time, the verdict was brutal: Liverpool 3–1 Tottenham, and the London club out of the League Cup.

For Kudus, though, this was more than just a cup exit. It was a return to visibility.

A Timely Reminder for Ghana

Back in Ghana, eyes will have been fixed on his name on that teamsheet as much as on the scoreline at Anfield.

His return to the starting lineup offers a timely boost for the Black Stars. Reports from MyJoyOnline indicate that Kudus is expected to be included in Carlos Queiroz’s squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Côte d'Ivoire and Gambia.

A missed chance at Anfield will sting. Regular minutes, sharp movement, and the trust of a Premier League manager matter more in the long run.

If this start marks the beginning of a sustained run in the Tottenham side, Ghana may feel they are getting Kudus back at just the right moment.