Portugal defeat spain on penalties to clinch Nations League title

Portugal clinched their second UEFA Nations League title on 关键字3Sunday night, defeating reigning champions Spain 5–3 on penalties after a dramatic 2–2 draw in extra time. Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored his 138th international goal, played a key role in the final before injury forced him off late in the match.

The contest at the Allianz Arena was a gripping encounter between Iberian rivals. Spain struck first through Martin Zubimendi in the 21st minute, but Portugal hit back quickly via Nuno Mendes after a sharp link-up play involving Ronaldo.

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Spain regained the lead before half-time thanks to a precise through-ball from Pedri to Mikel Oyarzabal, last year’s European Championship final hero. Portugal responded in the second half, with Ronaldo converting from close range to level the score once again.

Extra time could not separate the sides, sending the match to penalties. Alvaro Morata’s miss proved decisive, allowing Ruben Neves to net the winning spot-kick and secure Portugal’s triumph.

Ronaldo, 40, was visibly emotional at full-time. “Winning for Portugal is always special,” he told Sport TV. “I’ve won many titles with clubs, but nothing compares to this. It’s tears, it’s joy — mission accomplished.”

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Spain, who had not lost since March 2023 and were riding high after a thrilling 5–4 semi-final win over France, fell short despite another promising display. Teenager Lamine Yamal, one of the breakout stars of the tournament, was largely contained.

“This was a very balanced match,” Spain manager Luis de la Fuente said post-match. “Details decided it in the end. Portugal were just slightly more clinical in the shootout.”