Portugal 2–2 Spain (5–3 pens): Portugal Clinches Nations League Title in Epic Shootout


Portugal 2–2 Spain (5–3 pens): Portugal Clinches Nations League Title in Epic Shootout
Portugal has been crowned champions of the UEFA Nations League 2025 after a thrilling final against Spain in Munich. The match ended 2–2 after extra time, with Portugal triumphing 5–3 in the penalty shootout.
Spain surged ahead twice—first through Martín Zubimendi in the 21st minute, then Mikel Oyarzabal just before halftime. Portugal responded swiftly: Nuno Mendes equalized in the 26th minute, and Cristiano Ronaldo, now 40, celebrated his 138th international goal to level the score in the 61st.
After 120 minutes of gripping action, the match moved to penalties. Spain’s Álvaro Morata missed his spot-kick, and Portugal’s Diogo Costa made a key save, setting the stage for Rúben Neves to confidently dispatch the decisive penalty.
Ronaldo was visibly emotional after his spot-kick and the win, shedding tears on the pitch—marking his third major international trophy with Portugal (2016 Euros, 2019 Nations League). The final was also a showcase of generational contrast, featuring 17-year-old Spanish prodigy Lamine Yamal against the veteran Ronaldo.
Nuno Mendes was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance, which included a goal, an assist, and composure in the shootout. Portugal becomes the first nation to win the Nations League twice, solidifying their position as a rising European power.