Portugal Clinch Second UEFA Nations League Title with Dramatic Win Over Spain

In an exciting finale at Munich's Allianz Arena on June 8, 2025, Portugal beat Spain, in a nail-biting penalty shootout, to claim their second UEFA Nations League crown. After a compelling 2 ‑ 2 draw that went through extra time, Portugal prevailed 5 ‑ 3 from the penalty spot.

Spain made the initial breakthrough with Martín Zubimendi scoring a tap-in in the 21st minute. Portugal replied quickly with Nuno Mendes levelling with a powerful shot. Mikel Oyarzabal put Spain ahead again just before the break, only for Cristiano Ronaldo, aged 40, to blast home his record-breaking 138th international goal in the 61st minute, sending the match into extra time.

Rúben Neves saved Portugal late in the game but it was Ronaldo's influence that was indubitable. Diogo Costa's stop from Álvaro Morata in the shootout was the difference-maker. All five Portuguese shooters scored, ending with Rúben Neves slotting home the winning penalty. The veteran captain was visibly emotional, tears running down his eyes as he lifted the trophy.

Nuno Mendes was named Man of the Match for his solid performance, particularly his defensive mastery of Spain's teenage star Lamine Yamal. Yamal, substituted in extra time, left the field clearly distraught, and Real Madrid's Morata hinted at a possible national team goodbye after his penalty miss.

Portugal's win saw them become the first team to claim more than one Nations League title. Although Spain's unbeaten run since March 2023 continued, individual mistakes proved costly.