Portugal Defeat Spain on Penalties to Win Second UEFA Nations League Title

Portugal have claimed their second UEFA Nations League title, becoming the first team to win the competition twice and ending Spain's impressive run in the process.

While Spain entered the final in Munich on the back of a thrilling 5-4 semi-final win over France, it was Portugal who held their nerve on the biggest stage. Roberto Martínez's side showed resilience, coming from behind twice during regular time before edging Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout.

Cristiano Ronaldo, at 40 years old, may be in the twilight of his career, but he once again proved his value with an emotional and commanding performance. Though the final may not have matched Spain’s semi-final spectacle in terms of goals, Portugal’s calculated approach prevailed — just as it often does in finals.

Lamine Yamal, Spain's teenage sensation, had a quiet evening and was notably at fault during Portugal's second goal, allowing Nuno Mendes too much space. While expectations remain high for the young star, moments like these remind us of his age — he only recently turned 18.

For the second Nations League final in a row, the match was decided on penalties. Spain triumphed in the shootout two years ago, but this time Álvaro Morata missed the decisive kick, handing the title to Portugal.

It was a bittersweet night for Spain, who missed the chance to secure a third consecutive major trophy. For Portugal — and Ronaldo — it was another historic moment. And for the Nations League, it was further proof that the tournament can produce drama.

Nations League 2024-2025

Portugal - Spain 2:2 (1:2), shoot-out 5:3
Goals: Zubimendi, 21 (0:1); Mendes N., 26 (1:1); Oyarzabal, 45 (1:2); Cristiano Ronaldo, 61 (2:2)

Portugal: Costa D.; Dias R.; Inacio (Veiga, 74); Mendes N.; Vitinha F.; Conceicao F. (Ruben Neves, 46); Neves J. P. (Semedo N., 46); Bernardo Silva (Rafael Leão, 74); Fernandes B.; Pedro Neto (Jota, 106); Cristiano Ronaldo (Ramos G., 88)
Bench: José Sá; Rui Silva; Dalot; Silva A.; Mora; Palhinha; Pedro Gonçalves; Félix J.; Trincão
Yellow Cards: Inacio 19; Pedro Neto 81; Mendes N. 100

Spain: Simón U.; Huijsen; Le Normand; Mingueza (Porro, 93); Cucurella; Zubimendi; Fabian Ruiz (Merino, 75); Oyarzabal (Morata, 111); Yamal (Pino Y., 106); Pedri (Isco, 75); Nico Williams (Álex Baena, 92)
Bench: Raya; Remiro; Cubarsí; Vivian; Grimaldo; Gavi; Olmo; Fermin; Samu
Yellow Cards: Fabian Ruiz 34; Le Normand 90; Álex Baena 100; Porro 110