Cristiano Ronaldo was in tears as Portugal picked up their second Nations League title by beating holders Spain 5-3 on penalties following a thrilling 2-2 draw in Sunday’s final in Munich, Germany.
Ronaldo’s 138th international goal took the final to a shootout, with Álvaro Morata‘s miss proving costly for Spain as Rúben Neves struck the winning spot kick to spark wild scenes of celebration, with emotion overwhelming the veteran captain.
“Winning for Portugal is always special,” Ronaldo told Sport TV. “I have many titles with clubs, but nothing is better than winning for Portugal. “It’s tears. It’s duty done and a lot of joy.”
Spain’s exhilarating 5-4 victory over France in Thursday’s semifinal ensured Luis de la Fuente’s side had continued an unbeaten run that stretched back to March 2023 coming into Sunday’s showpiece final in Munich.
They appeared on course for yet another trophy, on the back last year’s European Championship triumph, as Martín Zubimendi tapped home his second international goal in the 21st minute.
The holders’ lead did not last long, however, as flying Portugal full-back Nuno Mendes slotted home the equaliser after good work from Ronaldo in the build up.
Portugal players celebrate after beating Spain to win the UEFA Nations League.
A sublime pass from midfielder Pedri helped Mikel Oyarzabal, who netted the winner against England in last year’s European Championship final, restore Spain’s lead before the break.
“It’s a shame and it’s tough, but with time it will be more appreciated,” Oyarzabal said. “We struggled more in the second half, we were tired. The substitutions helped them. But we are proud of our team and we will fight to be close to winning a title again.”
The tussle between the Iberian neighbours was billed as a clash between old and new — 40-year-old and five-times Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo and Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
While Yamal, among the favourites to take home one of the most prestigious individual awards this year, struggled to make inroads, Ronaldo pounced on his chance, firing Portugal level from close range just past the hour mark.
“Details do make the difference, and that was a game which I think was super balanced but when we were coming to the end of the extra time I thought we were doing enough to avoid going to penalties,” Spain coach De La Fuente said.
“Sadly, that’s what decided the match and they, on the night, were just slightly better and more effective in the shootout.”
Ronaldo went off injured late on and neither side could find a winner in extra time, with the game going to a shootout and Portugal netting all five of their penalties to claim the trophy.
Sadly, the match was marred by the death of a fan late in the game after the spectator fell from the second-tier seats at the Allianz Arena.
Information from Reuters and The Associated Press was used in this story.
