Portugal claimed their second UEFA Nations League title in dramatic fashion on Sunday, defeating reigning champions Spain 5-3 on penalties after a gripping 2-2 draw in extra time.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored his 138th international goal to force the match into a shootout, was reduced to tears as he watched from the sidelines after being substituted due to injury. His emotional reaction came moments after Ruben Neves slotted home the decisive penalty, sealing victory for Portugal and triggering jubilant celebrations.
“Winning for Portugal is always special,” Ronaldo told Sport TV. “I have many titles with clubs, but nothing is better than winning for Portugal. It’s tears. It’s duty done and a lot of joy.”
The final, hosted in Munich, lived up to its billing as a heavyweight clash between Iberian rivals. Spain, who entered the match on an unbeaten run dating back to March 2023 and fresh off a thrilling 5-4 semi-final win over France, drew first blood through Martin Zubimendi’s close-range finish in the 21st minute.
Portugal responded swiftly, with Nuno Mendes leveling after a slick move initiated by Ronaldo. Mikel Oyarzabal restored Spain’s advantage before halftime, latching onto a sublime pass from Pedri — reminiscent of his match-winning performance in the Euro 2024 final.
But Portugal fought back once again. In the 63rd minute, Ronaldo capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot home the equaliser, bringing the score to 2-2 and igniting hopes of another major title.
The narrative of the final revolved around contrasting generations — the evergreen 40-year-old Ronaldo and Spain’s teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal. While Yamal, a rising star and Ballon d’Or contender, struggled to impose himself, Ronaldo rose to the occasion once more for his country.
With no breakthrough in extra time, the game was settled by penalties. Spain faltered when Alvaro Morata missed their third spot kick, and Portugal held their nerve, converting all five penalties.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente acknowledged the narrow margins that defined the final.
“Details do make the difference,” he said. “That was a game which I think was super balanced, but when we were coming to the end of extra time I thought we were doing enough to avoid going to penalties. Sadly, that’s what decided the match, and they, on the night, were just slightly better and more effective in the shootout.”
The win adds another glittering chapter to Ronaldo’s storied international career, which already includes a Euro 2016 title and the 2019 Nations League crown — and reinforces Portugal’s status as a European powerhouse.
