Stiven Mendoza is a Colombian professional footballer known for his electrifying pace and clinical finishing. Born on June 27, 1992, in Palmira, Valle del Cauca, Mendoza has played across multiple continents, showcasing his talent in leagues ranging from the Indian Super League to Ligue 1 and Campeonato Brasileiro Série A. His journey is filled with remarkable achievements, struggles, and moments that define his career. Here, we unveil some lesser-known facts about this dynamic forward.
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Stiven Mendoza: Key Facts & Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | John Stiven Mendoza Valencia |
| Date of Birth | June 27, 1992 |
| Place of Birth | Palmira, Valle del Cauca, Colombia |
| Nationality | Colombian |
| Current Club | Adana Demirspor (Turkey) |
| Previous Clubs | Envigado, América Cali, Cúcuta Deportivo, Deportivo Cali, Chennaiyin FC, Corinthians, New York City FC, Bahia, Amiens, Ceará, Santos |
| Position | Forward / Winger |
| Dominant Foot | Right |
| Height | 1.74 m (5 ft 9 in) |
| Weight | 72 kg |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $2 million |
| Girlfriend/Wife | Not publicly known |
| Parents | Details undisclosed |
| Siblings | Lost his brother in a tragic incident in 2019 |
| Playing Style | Quick, agile, and direct with strong finishing skills |
| Trophies Won | Indian Super League (2015), Campeonato Brasileiro Série A (2015) |
| Major Achievements | ISL Golden Boot (2015), Hero of the League (2015) |
| Total Career Goals | Over 80 goals across different leagues |
| International Caps | 2 caps for Colombia (2019) |
| Injury History | Has suffered minor muscle injuries but no major career-threatening injuries |
| Tattoos | Yes, he has multiple tattoos |
| Heading Ability | Moderate |
| Scoring Ability | High, especially in one-on-one situations |
| Pressure Handling | Strong, proven in clutch moments |
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born and raised in Palmira, Mendoza began his football journey with Envigado FC, making his senior debut in 2010. His early career saw him being loaned to América Cali and Cúcuta Deportivo before signing with Deportivo Cali, the club he supported as a child.
Breakthrough in the Indian Super League
Mendoza became a household name in India after joining Chennaiyin FC in 2014. He played a crucial role in their 2015 Indian Super League (ISL) title-winning campaign, finishing as the top scorer with 13 goals and earning the Golden Boot and Hero of the League award.
Corinthians and the Brazilian Experience
His success in ISL caught the attention of Brazilian giants Corinthians, who signed him in 2015. Though he won the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A title with them, he struggled for game time, leading to loan spells at New York City FC and Bahia.
European Move and French League Stint
In 2018, Mendoza moved to France, signing with Amiens SC. He experienced ups and downs in Ligue 1, including a tragic period where he was robbed at gunpoint in Colombia and lost his brother in a shooting incident. Despite this, he managed to score some crucial goals for Amiens before the team was relegated.
Return to Brazil and Santos Experience
After stints in Ceará and Santos, Mendoza continued to prove his worth in Brazilian football, becoming Ceará’s top scorer in 2022. However, both Ceará and Santos suffered relegation, marking a challenging phase in his career.
Recent Move to Adana Demirspor
In February 2024, Mendoza joined Turkish side Adana Demirspor, aiming for a fresh start in Europe. With his experience and skill set, he is expected to make a strong impact in the Turkish league.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is Stiven Mendoza’s net worth?
Mendoza’s estimated net worth is around $2 million, earned through his football career and endorsements.
2. Which club does Stiven Mendoza currently play for?
As of 2024, he plays for Adana Demirspor in Turkey.
3. Has Stiven Mendoza played for the Colombian national team?
Yes, he has earned two caps for the Colombia national team in 2019.
4. What are his biggest achievements?
Winning the 2015 Indian Super League, the Golden Boot, and the Hero of the League award.
5. What is his playing style?
Mendoza is known for his pace, dribbling, and clinical finishing. He is effective in counter-attacks and one-on-one situations.
6. Does he have any tattoos?
Yes, Mendoza has several tattoos, which reflect his personal experiences and beliefs.
7. Has he suffered any major injuries?
No, he has not had any career-threatening injuries but has dealt with minor muscle strains.
Stiven Mendoza’s career is a testament to perseverance and adaptability. From the streets of Colombia to the stadiums of India, Brazil, France, and Turkey, his journey reflects a footballer willing to embrace challenges and grow. With his current move to Adana Demirspor, Mendoza continues to showcase his talent on the global stage, proving that resilience and skill can take a player far in the footballing world.
