Portugal’s players including Portugal’s forward #07 Cristiano Ronaldo celebrate with the trophy after winning the UEFA Nations League final football match between Portugal and Spain in Munich, southern Germany on June 8, 2025. (Photo by John MACDOUGALL / AFP)
In an electrifying final, Portugal triumphed over long-time rivals Spain 5-3 on penalties, clinching their second UEFA Nations League title.
The match was an emotional rollercoaster, with Portugal twice fighting back from behind to level the scores.
Early dominance and quick response
Spain started strong, with Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal’s fluid movement troubling the Portuguese defense.
Zubimendi capitalized on a botched clearance to give Spain an early lead.
However, Portugal responded swiftly when Nuno Mendes scored with a low shot across the goal.
Just before halftime, Mikel Oyarzabal threaded the ball past Diogo Costa to put Spain ahead.
But Cristiano Ronaldo, quiet until then, picked his moment to shine.
With 61 minutes gone, Mendes’s cross deflected, and Ronaldo outmuscled Marc Cucurella to volley home, equalizing for Portugal.
Penalty Shootout Drama
The match went to penalties after extra time, with both teams converting their first three spot kicks.
Mendes buried Portugal’s fourth, and then Morata’s penalty was saved by Diogo Costa.
Neves stepped up and converted, sending Portugal’s players streaming onto the pitch.
Historic Win and Celebrations
This victory marks Portugal’s second competitive win over Spain, with the other being a 1-0 win at Euro 2004. Roberto Martinez celebrated his first international trophy as Portugal’s manager.
Portugal becomes the first two-time winner of the Nations League, adding to their Euro 2016 title.
The win was a testament to Portugal’s resilience and determination, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s heroics and the team’s penalty shootout precision sealing their triumph.
