Munich, Germany – June 9, 2025 – Portugal has once again lifted the UEFA Nations League trophy, triumphing over reigning champions Spain in a captivating final that went down to a penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in regulation and extra time. The dramatic conclusion at the Allianz Arena saw Portugal emerge victorious with a 5-3 win from the spot, securing their second title in the competition’s history.

The final was a roller-coaster of emotions, living up to its billing as a clash between two European heavyweights. Spain drew first blood in the 21st minute through Zubimendi, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot home. Spain’s opening goal came after Lamine Yamal’s “teasing ball” and cross into the box. However, Portugal, spurred on by their passionate support, quickly responded. Just five minutes later, Nuno Mendes netted his first international goal with a powerful, low shot that rattled the far corner, bringing the scores level at 1-1.

The seesaw battle continued as Oyarzabal restored Spain’s lead just before halftime, coolly dinking the ball past a rushing Costa in the 45th minute. The second half saw Portugal pushing hard for an equalizer, and it was none other than the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo who delivered. In the 61st minute, the 40-year-old superstar, in a testament to his enduring prowess, capitalized on a deflection from Mendes’ cross to lash the ball into the net from close range, making it 2-2 and scoring his 138th international goal. This goal came after Mendes “burned Yamal for pace” on the left flank before delivering the cross.

Throughout the match, Lamine Yamal, the 17-year-old Spanish prodigy who had been a focus of pre-match narratives due to his youth and recent performances (including scoring twice in Spain’s 5-4 semifinal win against France), had a somewhat “flat” and “below par” performance. He was described as being “on the margins” for periods, and despite a shot from distance in the 76th minute that failed to trouble Costa, he did not have his usual influential impact. Nuno Mendes, in particular, was credited with “keeping Yamal well contained throughout” the final, and was highlighted for “pocketing Yamal” in player ratings. Yamal was substituted in the 106th minute for Pino.

With neither side able to break the deadlock in the remaining minutes of regulation or through a tense extra-time period, the final was decided by penalties. Portugal showed nerves of steel, converting all five of their spot-kicks with precision. Goncalo Ramos, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, and Nuno Mendes all found the net before Ruben Neves stepped up to calmly convert the decisive penalty. Spanish hopes were dashed when Portugal’s goalkeeper Costa made a crucial save from Morata’s penalty, handing Portugal the advantage they needed to seal the victory.

The triumph marks Portugal’s second UEFA Nations League title, adding another prestigious trophy to their cabinet. For Cristiano Ronaldo, it signifies his third international title, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time.

Adding to Portugal’s accolades, the impressive Nuno Mendes was deservedly named the Player of the Tournament, a recognition of his outstanding contributions, including his crucial equalizer in the final and his strong defensive performance.

The match, which became the highest-scoring UEFA Nations League final to date, was a fitting end to a memorable tournament, showcasing the attacking flair and competitive spirit that defines both Portuguese and Spanish football.