In a gripping encounter in Munich, Portugal emerged victorious against their rivals Spain, winning 5-3 in a penalty shootout to claim their second Nations League title.
Cristiano Ronaldo equalised for Portugal in the 61st minute, but the teams remained deadlocked as the match concluded in regular time. Substituted before extra time, Ronaldo was seen in tears of joy on the sidelines as Ruben Neves converted the decisive penalty after Diogo Costa saved Alvaro Morata’s attempt.
Spain, the reigning champions, took the lead in the 21st minute when Martin Zubimendi capitalised on a defensive error. However, Portugal quickly responded with Nuno Mendes’ low strike finding the net just five minutes later.
Mikel Oyarzabal restored Spain’s advantage before half-time, but Ronaldo once again came to the fore, converting a deflected cross with a close-range volley.
Portugal’s penalty takers—Goncalo Ramos, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, and Nuno Mendes—each found the back of the net, while Morata’s weak attempt was thwarted by Costa. Neves’ successful penalty secured Portugal’s historic second Nations League title, denying Spain the same accolade.
In earlier matches, France clinched bronze by defeating Germany 2-0 in Stuttgart, marking Germany’s first back-to-back losses since 2023. Six minutes from time, Kylian Mbappe set up Michael Olise for a tap-in, adding to France’s collection of Nations League medals.
