Portugal secured their second Nations League title by overcoming defending champions Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout. The final, held in Munich, ended 2-2 after extra time, with Portugal prevailing 5-3 on penalties. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa emerged as the hero for Portugal, saving Alvaro Morata's crucial spot-kick, before Ruben Neves converted the decisive penalty to seal the victory for Roberto Martinez's side.

Much of the pre-match discussion centered on the encounter between veteran Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo, aged 40, and Spain's 17-year-old sensation, Lamine Yamal. While Ronaldo played a pivotal role by scoring the equalizer that forced extra time, both he and Yamal were substituted before the tense penalty shootout unfolded. Ronaldo was visibly emotional, pictured in tears following Portugal's triumph.

The final promised excitement, as Euro 2024 winners Spain had reached this stage via a thrilling 5-4 victory over France, while Portugal had overcome Germany 2-1 in their semi-final. The match itself began with Spain demonstrating early ascendancy. Their pressure paid off in the 21st minute when Martin Zubimendi scored a close-range goal after Portugal struggled to clear a delivery from Yamal. However, Portugal's response was swift. Just four minutes later, Paris St Germain full-back Nuno Mendes netted his first international goal with a powerful angled drive, leveling the scores. Spain regained the lead just before the half-time whistle when Mikel Oyarzabal, who had initiated the move for the first goal, deftly finished a through ball from Pedri.

The second half saw Portugal push for another equalizer. Bruno Fernandes had a goal disallowed for offside early in the period. The much-needed goal eventually came in the 61st minute. Nuno Mendes was again influential, delivering a cross from the left which, after a deflection, found Cristiano Ronaldo. The prolific forward volleyed home his 138th international goal, making it 2-2 and sending the game into extra time. Ronaldo was later substituted in the 88th minute, limping off to be replaced by Goncalo Ramos.

Extra time proved to be a cagey affair with few clear-cut chances. Portugal substitute Nelson Semedo had a notable opportunity but scuffed his shot wide. Tensions briefly flared after Nuno Mendes went down in the Spanish penalty area under a challenge from Alex Baena. With no further goals, the championship was decided by penalties. Diogo Costa's save from Alvaro Morata was the defining moment, allowing Ruben Neves to step up and secure Portugal's second Nations League trophy, their first having come in the inaugural 2019 tournament.