Portugal lifted the UEFA Nations League trophy for the second time, with veteran forward Cristiano Ronaldo delivering a memorable performance, while former Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata became the unfortunate figure of the night.
Having first won the title in 2019, Roberto Martinez’s side once again came out on top in a gripping final against reigning European champions Spain in Munich. The Portuguese had to come from behind twice, with Ronaldo playing a key role, including scoring a brilliant volley in the 61st minute to level the score at 2-2. That strike marked his 938th career goal and his 138th for the national team.
Although Ronaldo watched the penalty shootout from the bench alongside 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal, he had already left his mark. Spain’s Morata, however, missed his penalty, paving the way for Ruben Neves to calmly convert the decisive kick and secure Portugal’s win.
This final was historic, with both teams vying to become the first to win the Nations League twice.
The game started slowly but burst into life in the 17th minute with Nico Williams curling an effort just over the bar. Spain then took the lead four minutes later when Portugal’s defense failed to deal with a dangerous cross from Yamal, allowing Martin Zubimendi, set to join Arsenal, to slot home his second international goal.
Spain had previously been 4-0 up within 55 minutes in their semi-final against France, but Portugal weren’t going to allow a repeat. Ronaldo sparked a counterattack that ended with Nuno Mendes drilling a low shot into the bottom corner in the 26th minute. VAR confirmed Ronaldo had stayed onside in the build-up.
Spain regained the lead right before halftime when Pedri’s clever reverse pass set up Mikel Oyarzabal, the man who broke England’s hearts in the last Euros final, for another crucial goal.
At halftime, Portugal manager Martinez introduced Ruben Neves and Nelson Semedo, nearly turning the game immediately as Bruno Fernandes had a goal ruled out for offside in the 49th minute.
Ronaldo struck again soon after, pouncing on a looping deflection that confused Spanish defender Marc Cucurella to score his eighth goal in this Nations League campaign.
Ronaldo left the pitch with a muscle injury in the 88th minute, while Yamal was substituted in extra time. The match became heated, including a VAR check for a potential red card after a scuffle broke out.
Portugal held their nerve in the shootout, with Goncalo Ramos, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, and Nuno Mendes all converting their penalties. The final moment belonged to Neves, who scored the winner after Morata’s costly miss.
