Cristiano Ronaldo was in tears as Portugal picked up their second Nations League title by beating holders Spain 5-3 on penalties following a thrilling 2-2 draw in Sunday’s final.
Ronaldo’s 138th international goal took the final to a shootout, with Alvaro Morata’s miss proving costly for Spain as Ruben Neves struck the winning spot kick to spark wild scenes of celebration, with emotion overwhelming the veteran captain.
Spain’s exhilarating 5-4 victory over France in Thursday’s semi-final ensured Luis de la Fuente’s side had continued an unbeaten run that stretched back to March 2023 coming into Sunday’s showpiece final in Munich.
They appeared on course for yet another trophy, on the back last year’s European Championship triumph, as Martin Zubimendi tapped home his second international goal in the 21st minute.
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The holders’ lead did not last long, however, as flying Portugal full-back Nuno Mendes slotted home the equaliser after good work from Ronaldo in the build up.
A sublime pass from midfielder Pedri helped Mikel Oyarzabal, who netted the winner against England in last year’s European Championship final, restore Spain’s lead before the break.
The tussle between the Iberian neighbours was billed as a clash between old and new – 40-year-old and five-times Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo and Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
While Yamal, among the favourites to take home one of the most prestigious individual awards this year, struggled to make inroads, Ronaldo pounced on his chance, firing Portugal level from close range just past the hour mark.
Ronaldo went off injured late on and neither side could find a winner in extra time, with the game going to a shootout and Portugal netting all five of their penalties to claim the trophy.
For the Record
The La Roja were the holders, having won the last edition in 2023 by beating Croatia on penalties.
Tonight, they are being led by their head coach de la Fuente on the stage as they settle for the No. 2 spot.
Portugal’s Mendes, who scored their opener, has been named player of the tournament.
The young and talented side put up a great fight against an experienced Portugal team, but had to settle for a runners-up medal.
Ronaldo, Portugal’s 40-year-old skipper, has now won three international trophies for the country. Two UEFA Nations League trophies (2019, 2025) and the European Championship in 2016.
He also played a significant role in Portugal’s victory tonight, scoring the all-important equaliser in the second half, which forced the contest into extra time and, eventually, penalties.
Reported by Aljazera
