Portugal beat Spain on penalties to lift second Nations League title

Portugal clinched their second UEFA Nations League crown on Sunday night in Munich, defeating Spain 5-3 on penalties after a pulsating 2-2 draw in regulation and extra time.

The final was a dramatic affair as Portugal twice came from behind to level the score. Martin Zubimendi capitalised on a defensive lapse to give Spain a 21st-minute lead, but Nuno Mendes replied swiftly with a fine finish five minutes later.

Spain regained their advantage just before the break when Mikel Oyarzabal, La Roja’s go-to man in finals, tucked home a well-worked move. But Cristiano Ronaldo, largely quiet until then, struck in the 61st minute with a powerful volley after Mendes’ cross took a deflection into his path, making it his fourth goal in 10 appearances against Spain.

The match remained level through extra time, with Ronaldo eventually forced off with cramp. In the shootout, both sides dispatched their first three penalties. Mendes calmly slotted Portugal’s fourth before Alvaro Morata saw his effort saved by Diogo Costa.

Ruben Neves then stepped up and sealed the title for Portugal, sending the red-and-green contingent into raptures and becoming the first two-time winners of the Nations League since its inception in 2018.

It was just Portugal’s second competitive victory over their Iberian neighbours, the first coming at Euro 2004. The triumph also adds to their major trophy haul, alongside the Euro 2016 title.

The final was a showcase of attacking talent, with Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal threatening for Spain early on. Oyarzabal’s goal marked his third in an international final, continuing a remarkable record despite the loss.

Portugal’s resilience and composure in the shootout proved decisive, as Roberto Martinez’s side celebrated a hard-fought triumph under the Munich floodlights.