Nations League Final: Ronaldo Leads Portugal to Win Over Spain on Penalties

Cristiano Ronaldo wept tears of joy on Sunday night as Portugal clinched their second UEFA Nations League title in a dramatic final against Spain at the Allianz Arena in Munich.

The match ended 2-2 after extra time, but it was goalkeeper Diogo Costa’s penalty save from Álvaro Morata that proved decisive, handing Portugal a 5-3 win in the shootout.

Though forced off with an injury late in the game, Ronaldo still played a key role, scoring Portugal’s second goal and guiding the team through an intense encounter. After the final whistle, the 40-year-old could hardly contain his emotions.

“I’ve won many titles in my career, but nothing compares to winning for Portugal,” Ronaldo said, holding back tears. “This is joy. This is mission accomplished.”

A Final to Remember

The final lived up to its billing, featuring an electrifying blend of youth and experience. On one side, there was Spain’s 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal. On the other, Ronaldo, still commanding respect on the international stage.

Spain struck first through Martin Zubimendi in the 21st minute, capitalizing on a move he started and finished after a teasing cross from Yamal. But Portugal responded quickly, Cristiano Ronaldo beat the offside trap to help set up Nuno Mendes, who fired a powerful equalizer past Unai Simón.

Just before halftime, Spain reclaimed the lead when Pedri threaded a stunning pass to Mikel Oyarzabal, who calmly slotted it home.

In the second half, Portugal pushed hard. Bruno Fernandes had a goal ruled out for offside, but the equalizer finally came through a familiar name. Mendes’ deflected cross found Ronaldo, who met it with a sharp volley—his 138th international goal.

As the match wore on, fatigue took its toll. Ronaldo limped off in the closing minutes of regular time, his night apparently done. But even from the sidelines, he remained the emotional anchor of the team.

Diogo Jota had a late chance to seal it in extra time but couldn’t find the target, and so it came down to penalties.

Here’s how the shootout unfolded:

• Gonçalo Ramos – Scored
• Mikel Merino – Scored
• Vitinha – Scored
• Alex Baena – Scored
• Bruno Fernandes – Scored
• Isco – Scored
• Nuno Mendes – Scored
• Álvaro Morata – Saved
• Rúben Neves – Scored

Costa’s save from Morata opened the door, and Neves slammed it shut. Portugal were champions again, adding to their inaugural Nations League title in 2019.

While Portugal celebrated, the evening was marred by tragedy. UEFA confirmed that a fan died during the match after falling from an upper level inside the stadium during extra time.

“There was a medical emergency at the Munich Arena and despite the best efforts of the medical team, the person sadly passed away at 00:06,” UEFA said in a statement.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente offered condolences in his post-match remarks: “Before we begin, I want to express my sorrow. A fan died tonight. My thoughts are with their family.”

With the 2026 World Cup just a year away, both Portugal and Spain have shown they are serious contenders.