Portugal beat Spain 5-3 on penalties: Nations League final

Cristiano Ronaldo was overcome with emotion as Portugal secured their second Nations League title, defeating reigning champions Spain 5-3 on penalties following a thrilling 2-2 draw in Sunday’s final.

Ronaldo’s 138th international goal forced the match into a shootout, where Alvaro Morata’s miss proved decisive for Spain.

Ruben Neves then calmly converted the winning spot kick, triggering wild celebrations and visibly moving the veteran captain.

Spain, fresh off an exhilarating 5-4 semi-final victory over France on Thursday, had maintained an unbeaten run since March 2023 leading into Sunday’s final in Munich.

They appeared poised to add another trophy to their cabinet, following last year’s European Championship triumph, when Martin Zubimendi tapped home his second international goal in the 21st minute.

However, the holders’ lead was short-lived. Portugal’s dynamic full-back Nuno Mendes slotted home the equalizer after excellent build-up play from Ronaldo.

A sublime pass from midfielder Pedri then set up Mikel Oyarzabal, who netted the winner against England in last year’s European Championship final, to restore Spain’s lead before halftime.

ALSO READ : Tobi Amusan sets new meet record with 12.45s victory at Rabat Diamond League

The Iberian clash was billed as a showdown between the old guard and the new generation: 40-year-old, five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo against Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.

While Yamal, a favorite for this year’s prestigious individual award, struggled to make a significant impact, Ronaldo seized his opportunity, firing Portugal level from close range just past the hour mark.

Ronaldo left the field late in the game due to an injury, and neither side could find a winner in extra time, leading to the penalty shootout. Portugal was flawless, converting all five of their penalties to clinch the coveted trophy.