Cristiano Ronaldo leads Portugal to second UEFA Nations League title, beat Spain on penalties; become first side to win competition twice
Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal have now won the UEFA Nations League twice (Image via X/@UEAFEuro & Cristiano)
Portugal secured their second UEFA Nations League title by defeating Spain 5-3 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in Munich, with
Cristiano Ronaldo
scoring a crucial equalizer before being forced off with an injury and watching tearfully as his team made history as the first nation to win the trophy twice.
The match began with intense attacking from both sides. João Neves came close for Portugal in the opening minutes, while Spain's Pedri and Nico Williams also threatened early on.
Spain took the lead in the 21st minute through Martin Zubimendi, who capitalized on Portugal's failure to clear Lamine Yamal's cross.
Portugal equalized five minutes later when Nuno Mendes, who had been battling with Yamal throughout the match, beat Oscar Mingueza and scored his first international goal.
Portugal became the first side to win the UEFA Nations League twice (Image via X)
Spain regained the advantage just before halftime as Mikel Oyarzabal connected with Pedri's well-timed pass to make it 2-1.
Portugal improved after the break with the additions of Rúben Neves and Nelson Semedo. Ronaldo leveled the score again after the hour mark, volleying in Mendes' deflected cross for his 938th career goal.
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Yes, he won't reach a final again
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Despite Ronaldo's late injury exit, Portugal continued to press in extra time. Semedo missed an opportunity, while Rafael Leao's speed caused problems for Spain's defense.
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Diogo Jota nearly won it with a late header.
The penalty shootout that followed saw both teams convert their first three attempts. The breakthrough came when Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa saved Álvaro Morata's effort.
Ruben Neves then stepped up to convert the decisive penalty, securing Portugal's victory and their second Nations League crown.
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