Tottenham Hotspur's hopes of a triumphant start to the Thomas Frank era were dashed as Paris Saint-Germain fought back from two goals down to win the Uefa Super Cup on penalties in Udine. Spurs dominated for long periods, leading 2-0 with five minutes remaining, but a late collapse saw PSG equalise before winning the shootout 5-4.
Spurs took the lead in the first half through Micky van de Ven, who tapped in after Cristian Romero's header from a long throw caused chaos. They doubled their advantage early in the second half when Romero, announced as the new captain before kick-off, headed home a Pedro Porro free-kick. PSG goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier, making his debut in place of the dropped Gianluigi Donnarumma, was at fault for the second goal.
PSG substitute Lee Kang-in pulled one back with a fierce 20-yard drive in the 85th minute, and deep into stoppage time Gonçalo Ramos glanced in a cross from Ousmane Dembélé to force extra time. The match went to penalties after a goalless extra period, where Van de Ven and Mathys Tel missed for Spurs, while Vitinha's miss for PSG proved irrelevant. Nuno Mendes scored the decisive spot-kick to seal victory for the Champions League holders.
Spurs manager Thomas Frank acknowledged the need for further squad strengthening, particularly in attack, but was encouraged by the performances of Mohammed Kudus and Richarlison. The defeat highlighted familiar frailties in a squad that has a history of late collapses.
