On Sunday, June 8, 2025, the Portugal national football team made history once again by winning their second UEFA Nations League title, defeating Spain 5-3 in a penalty shootout after a thrilling 2-2 draw. The victory brought Cristiano Ronaldo to tears, showing the emotion and reward of years spent as national team captain.
The match, held at Allianz Arena in Germany, was intense and full of twists. Spain opened the scoring in the 21st minute through MartÃn Zubimendi, but Portugal responded just five minutes later with a goal from Nuno Mendes.
Before halftime, Mikel Oyarzabal scored Spain’s second goal, giving them a 2-1 lead at the break.
Cristiano Ronaldo, the 40-year-old captain, rescued Portugal in the 61st minute with the equalizer—his 138th international goal. He was later substituted before the match went into extra time.
Nuno Mendes, who not only scored but also gave a strong defensive performance, was named Man of the Match. He played a key role in Portugal’s victory and managed to neutralize Spain’s young star, Lamine Yamal, throughout the game.
Portugal became the first team in the history of the tournament to win the UEFA Nations League twice, after their first triumph in 2019. Spain, on the other hand, failed in their attempt to reclaim the title they had won in 2023.
