Portugal defeated long-time rivals Spain 5–3 on penalties to lift their second UEFA Nations League title, becoming the competition’s first two-time champions since its inception in 2018.
In a gripping final, Portugal twice came from behind in regulation time before holding firm through extra time and triumphing in the shootout. The win also marked Roberto Martínez’s first international trophy as Portugal manager.
Twists and turns in regulation time
Spain started the brighter of the two sides, and their early pressure paid off with a scrappy opening goal. After a chipped effort from Lamine Yamal caused chaos in the box, a failed clearance landed at the feet of Martín Zubimendi, who lashed the ball home.
Portugal responded quickly. Nuno Mendes, released by Pedro Neto, drove a low shot across goal and into the far corner to level the score.
Just before the break, Spain capitalised on a turnover in Portugal’s half. Pedri combined with Mikel Oyarzabal, who slid the ball past Diogo Costa to restore La Roja’s lead. It was Oyarzabal’s third goal in an international final—adding to his strikes in the Euro 2024 final and the 2023 Nations League decider.
Portugal equalised again in the 61st minute. After Mendes’s cross was deflected high into the air, Cristiano Ronaldo showed quick reactions, muscling past Marc Cucurella and volleying home. It was Ronaldo’s fourth goal against Spain in his career, his first since the memorable hat-trick in the 2018 World Cup.
Ronaldo, who had been largely quiet before scoring, was subbed off with cramp late in the match. Despite Portugal dominating extra time, neither side could find a winner.
Portugal perfect in the shootout
In the shootout, both teams converted their first three penalties. Mendes coolly slotted Portugal’s fourth before Spain’s captain Álvaro Morata saw his effort saved by Diogo Costa. Rúben Neves stepped up and buried the decisive spot-kick, sparking wild celebrations among the Portuguese players, including a limping Ronaldo who joined his teammates on the pitch.
“This is a huge moment for Portuguese football,” said Martinez post-match. “To come back twice against a top side like Spain shows the character of this team.”
The victory was just Portugal’s second competitive win over Spain, the first since their 1–0 triumph at Euro 2004, when a then 19-year-old Ronaldo featured on the left wing.
This latest title adds to Portugal’s growing trophy cabinet, which now includes Euro 2016, the 2019 Nations League, and the 2025 edition—a historic third major tournament for the country.
