Portugal claimed their second UEFA Nations League title by defeating Spain in the 2024-25 final. The match, held at the Allianz Arena in Munich, was decided by a penalty shootout after ending 2-2 in regular time. This victory makes Portugal the first nation to win the tournament twice since its creation.
The shootout saw Spain`s Alvaro Morata miss a crucial spot-kick, while Portugal`s Ruben Neves successfully converted the winner, securing a 5-3 penalty victory for the Portuguese national team.
Spain, managed by Luis de la Fuente, took an early lead through Martin Zubimendi. However, Portugal quickly responded, equalizing in the 26th minute with a goal from Nuno Mendes, set up by Pedro Neto.
Mikel Oyarzabal restored Spain`s lead before halftime. The dramatic equalizer came in the second half when Cristiano Ronaldo struck in the 61st minute with a far-post finish, marking his 938th career goal across all competitions for club and country.
This marks Ronaldo`s third major international trophy with Portugal, following the 2016 UEFA Euro and a previous Nations League victory. He appeared visibly emotional after the final whistle, embracing coach Roberto Martinez and celebrating with the Portugal supporters.
Benedict Kingsley