In a gripping final that extended into extra time and ended in penalty drama, Portugal edged out fierce rivals Spain 5–3 on spot kicks to lift their second UEFA Nations League trophy.
The encounter, a tale of resilience and revenge, saw Portugal come from behind twice in regulation time before ultimately sealing the win in Munich — a victory that marks their third major international title and the first under manager Roberto Martinez.
The Iberian clash began with Spain asserting early control, using their hallmark fluidity through Nico Williams and the teenage sensation Lamine Yamal to stretch the Portuguese defence. Their pressure bore fruit when a moment of confusion in the Portuguese backline allowed Martin Zubimendi to lash home the opening goal after a botched clearance.
However, the lead lasted barely five minutes. Portugal, undeterred, equalised through Nuno Mendes, who latched onto a perfectly timed pass from Pedro Neto and rifled a low shot across the face of goal and into the far corner.
Yet the first-half chaos was not over. In the dying seconds before the interval, Spain capitalised on a Portuguese mistake in midfield. Pedri and Mikel Oyarzabal combined smoothly before the latter slotted past Diogo Costa, restoring Spain’s advantage and bringing his tally in international finals to three — having also scored in the Euro 2024 and 2023 Nations League finals.
Portugal needed a spark, and as has been the case so often over two decades, it came from Cristiano Ronaldo. Largely subdued for much of the match, the veteran forward made his mark in the 61st minute.
Nuno Mendes, again a central figure, broke down the left and sent in a deflected cross. Ronaldo adjusted quickly, held off Marc Cucurella, and smashed the falling ball into the net for his fourth goal in ten matches against Spain. That strike would be his last act of the night, as he later limped off with cramp, having given all he had.
Extra time followed, with Portugal appearing the stronger side, even without their talisman. Spain’s energy waned, and their forays forward became less coordinated. However, neither side could break the deadlock, setting up a penalty shootout that evoked memories of Spain’s triumph in the same manner a year earlier.
This time, fortune favoured Portugal. Both sides confidently converted their first three kicks, before Nuno Mendes once again stepped up — this time from the spot — to put Portugal ahead. Álvaro Morata, under pressure, saw his effort parried comfortably by Diogo Costa.
That miss left the door open, and Rúben Neves walked through it with composure, sending his effort into the net and Portugal into euphoria.
The red and green of the Portuguese crowd erupted as their players flooded the pitch, joined by a hobbled but jubilant Ronaldo, who once again etched his name into the nation’s footballing lore.
The triumph is Portugal’s first competitive win over Spain since 2004, when a young Ronaldo helped eliminate their neighbours at the European Championship. Now, over two decades later, he remains central to the story — a symbol of longevity, grit, and glory.
What you should know
Portugal won their second UEFA Nations League title after beating Spain 5–3 on penalties. They came from behind twice in normal time, with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring the second equaliser.
This marks the first international trophy for Portugal’s manager, Roberto Martinez, and only the second time Portugal has beaten Spain in a competitive match. Ronaldo now has four goals in ten appearances against Spain.
