Portugal claimed their second UEFA Nations League title after a nerve-wracking penalty shootout victory over Spain in a pulsating final at Munich’s Allianz Arena.

The match ended 2-2 after 90 minutes, and with neither side able to break the deadlock in extra time, the game was decided from the spot. 

Veteran midfielder Ruben Neves converted the decisive penalty after Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa denied Alvaro Morata, sparking wild celebrations among the Portuguese players.

Cristiano Ronaldo, who had equalised in the second half with his 138th international goal, was substituted before extra time. The 40-year-old dropped to his knees and shed tears of joy on the sidelines after Neves sealed the win.

Spain, aiming to retain their 2023 title, struck first through Martin Zubimendi in the 21st minute. But Portugal responded swiftly as Nuno Mendes rifled a powerful shot into the far corner just five minutes later.

Mikel Oyarzabal restored Spain's lead with a composed finish before halftime, following a clever flick that bypassed Portugal’s midfield. But Ronaldo once again proved decisive, volleying home from close range in the 61st minute after connecting with a deflected cross from Mendes.

As the shootout unfolded, Goncalo Ramos, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, and Mendes calmly dispatched their spot-kicks, leaving Morata's miss to tip the balance in Portugal’s favour.

Highly anticipated as a clash between Ronaldo and Spanish prodigy Lamine Yamal, the final instead saw both stars kept quiet, with Yamal substituted in extra time after struggling against a resolute Mendes.

Spain threatened a late winner with efforts from Pedro Porro and Cucurella, but Costa stood firm.

With confetti raining down and the trophy in hand, Ronaldo wiped away tears and lifted the Nations League crown once more — cementing Portugal’s place in history as the competition’s first two-time champions.

Source: BBC

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