Fan dies after fall from second tier during Portugal's Nations League final win over Spain, UEFA confirms
Portugal won the Nations League final with a 5-3 penalty shootout victory over Spain, but the event was marred by a fan dying after a fall from the second tier at Munich's Allianz Arena. (AP Photo/Matthias Schrader)
A spectator attending the Nations League final between Spain and Portugal died after falling from the second tier of the main stand at Munich's Allianz Arena, UEFA confirmed on Sunday.
The incident occurred in the first period of extra time during Portugal's 5-3 victory over Spain in a penalty shootout. The fan fell onto the seating area below the second tier and was attended to by paramedics and stadium personnel. The match continued as the spectator received medical treatment but could not be revived, according to UEFA.
"There was a medical emergency at the Munich arena, and despite the best efforts of the medical team, the person sadly passed away at 00:06 [CET)]," UEFA said in a statement. "Our thoughts are with their loved ones at this difficult time."
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Upon learning of the fan's death, Portugal players were affected by the news amid their celebration.
"I would like to express my condolences to the family of the fan that died," Portugal defender Nuno Mendes said, via CBS Sports. "It casts a pall on our victory today."
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente also addressed the fan's death as he began his postgame press conference.
'Before we begin with the questions, I would like to express my condolences because a fan died in the stands today,' he said, via the Associated Press. 'My condolences to the family.'
Portugal and Spain finished in a 2-2 draw before the match went to a penalty shootout. Rúben Neves scored the decisive penalty kick for the victory, joined by goals from Goncalo Ramos, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes and Mendes.
"Winning for Portugal is always special," Cristiano Ronaldo told Sport TV, via ESPN. "I have many titles with clubs, but nothing is better than winning for Portugal. "It's tears. It's duty done and a lot of joy."
Álvaro Morata missed Spain's fourth kick after Mikel Merino, Baena and Isco scored, creating the opportunity for Neves' winner.
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