Portugal vs Spain Nations League final 2025, Portugal Beat Spain on Penalties to Win
Portugal vs Spain Nations League final 2025, Portugal lifted their second UEFA Nations League trophy after beating Spain 5-3 in a thrilling penalty shootout. The match ended 2-2 after extra time, and it was Cristiano Ronaldo and Diogo Costa who helped seal this historic victory for the Seleção.
First Half, Action-Packed and End-to-End
The game began with both teams attacking aggressively. Spain looked sharp and controlled possession early. Their passing was smooth, and it paid off in the 21st minute. After a defensive mistake by Joao Neves, Spain’s Martin Zubimendi scored from close range to give La Roja the lead.
But Portugal didn’t stay behind for long.
Just five minutes later, Cristiano Ronaldo held up the ball brilliantly, allowing Pedro Neto to find Nuno Mendes. The full-back smashed a low shot into the bottom corner, making it 1-1.
Spain responded before half-time. Pedri played a smart through ball to Mikel Oyarzabal, who calmly finished past Diogo Costa to make it 2-1. Portugal went into the break trailing again.
Second Half, Ronaldo Delivers Again
In the second half, Roberto Martinez made important changes, bringing on Ruben Neves and Nelson Semedo. This helped Portugal gain more control.
On the hour mark, Nuno Mendes once again created danger. His deflected cross found Ronaldo in the box, and the 40-year-old captain powered the ball into the net. That was Ronaldo’s 138th international goal, making it 2-2.
Extra Time, Missed Chances, Big Drama
Extra time was tight. Both teams had chances, but no goals were scored. Nelson Semedo and Diogo Jota came close, and Costa made a key save to deny Pedro Porro’s long-range shot.
Ronaldo had to leave the pitch late due to injury, which raised concerns. But Portugal held on and forced a shootout.
Penalty Shootout, Diogo Costa the Hero
The pressure was sky-high during the penalties. Portugal’s players – Goncalo Ramos, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, and Nuno Mendes – all scored calmly.
Then came the turning point.
Diogo Costa saved Alvaro Morata’s shot, giving Portugal the edge. Ruben Neves stepped up and buried the final penalty, sealing a 5-3 win in the shootout.
Portugal Make Nations League History
This was Portugal’s second UEFA Nations League title – the first came in 2019. They are now the only team to win the tournament twice.
The celebrations were emotional. Ronaldo, in tears, lifted the trophy once more for his country. At 40, he continues to be a leader and a goal-scorer when it matters most.
Player Ratings, Key Performers
- Cristiano Ronaldo (8/10): Scored the equaliser and showed leadership throughout. His 138th goal kept Portugal alive.
- Nuno Mendes (9/10): Man of the Match. Scored one, assisted one, and defended brilliantly against Yamal.
- Diogo Costa (6/10): Made up for earlier errors by saving the key penalty in the shootout.
- Pedro Neto (7/10): Bright and creative on the wing. Assisted the first goal.
- Ruben Neves (6/10): Scored the winning penalty and added strength in midfield.
- Roberto Martinez (9/10): His tactics and substitutions were spot on. The team responded well under pressure.
Spain Fall Short
Spain, the defending champions, played a strong game but couldn’t hold their nerve in the shootout. Lamine Yamal, the teenage star, was kept quiet by Nuno Mendes. Mikel Oyarzabal’s first-half goal wasn’t enough this time.
Ronaldo’s Third International Trophy
This victory adds to Ronaldo’s growing international legacy:
- Euro 2016 Champion
- Nations League 2019 Winner
- Nations League 2025 Winner
His performances in this tournament once again proved that age is just a number.
Portugal vs Spain Nations League final 2025, Final Thoughts
Portugal showed heart, experience, and mental toughness to beat a strong Spanish side. With Ronaldo still leading the way and young stars like Nuno Mendes rising, this team looks ready for even more glory.
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