Spain fell short in their bid to retain the UEFA Nations League title, as neighbours Portugal emerged victorious in a dramatic final, winning 5-3 on penalties after a thrilling 2-2 draw following extra time. The win marks Portugal’s second Nations League triumph, making them the first team to lift the trophy twice.
In a clash of past champions, it was Portugal—the inaugural winners—who made the brighter start. Under the guidance of Spanish-born manager Roberto Martínez, they nearly took the lead inside five minutes. A well-executed corner routine saw Bernardo Silva pick out the unmarked João Neves, but the young midfielder’s volley drifted narrowly wide.
Spain, however, soon found their rhythm. Nico Williams carved out a golden opportunity for Pedri, who found himself in acres of space 18 yards from goal, only to see his side-footed shot whistle just past the post.
That miss was soon forgotten as Spain took the lead. A flowing move ended with Lamine Yamal swinging in a dangerous cross, which Portugal failed to clear. Martin Zubimendi was quickest to react, slotting home from close range to put La Roja ahead.
But the lead didn’t last long. Just five minutes later, Portugal hit back through Champions League winner Nuno Mendes, who surged into the box and rifled a powerful shot into the far corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
As the first half progressed, the match turned into an end-to-end spectacle, resembling a basketball game at times. A third goal seemed inevitable, and it came just before the break. Pedri turned provider again, threading a clever pass into the path of Mikel Oyarzabal, who calmly tucked the ball into the bottom corner to restore Spain’s advantage.
Portugal thought they had equalised early in the second half when Bruno Fernandes found the net, but his effort was ruled out for offside. Still, their pressure continued to mount, and they were eventually rewarded. Cristiano Ronaldo, ever the poacher, reacted quickest at the far post to poke in a deflected cross from Mendes, leveling the match once more.
Spain nearly snatched a winner in regulation time through Isco, but Diogo Costa pulled off a brilliant save to keep Portugal in it and send the match into extra time.
With no goals in the added period, penalties would decide the winner. Spain had triumphed from the spot in the 2023 final against Croatia, but this time fortune favoured Portugal. Álvaro Morata missed Spain’s fourth penalty, leaving Rúben Neves to step up and coolly convert the decisive kick—sealing a flawless shootout for the EURO 2016 champions.
The victory not only underlines Portugal’s prowess in the Nations League but also provides a potentially fitting farewell for Cristiano Ronaldo, should this prove to be his final appearance in an international tournament.
Portugal Edge Out Spain On Penalties To Clinch Second UEFA Nations League Title
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