Portugal edged past neighbours Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout to lift their second UEFA Nations League title following a 2-2 draw in regulation time at the Allianz Arena in Munich.

Cristiano Ronaldo, who was substituted before extra time, wept tears of joy on the sidelines as Ruben Neves struck the decisive penalty to seal Portugal’s victory. The emotional climax came moments after goalkeeper Diogo Costa denied Spain’s Alvaro Morata from the spot, handing Portugal the advantage in the tense shootout.

Spain, the defending champions from the 2023 edition, had taken the lead in the 21st minute when Martin Zubimendi capitalised on a defensive mix-up to poke the ball past Costa. However, their lead lasted just five minutes before Nuno Mendes fired a powerful low drive beyond Unai Simon to draw Portugal level.

La Roja restored their advantage before the interval through Mikel Oyarzabal, who once again proved decisive after his heroics in the Euro 2024 final against England. But Cristiano Ronaldo equalised in the 61st minute, skilfully volleying home from close range after connecting with Mendes’ deflected cross.

With no winner after 120 minutes, the match proceeded to penalties. Goncalo Ramos, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, and Mendes all converted confidently for Portugal. Following Costa’s crucial save from Morata, Neves calmly slotted in the winner.

The triumph not only secured Portugal’s second Nations League title but also denied Spain the chance to match their record, marking another historic night for the Seleção.

Faridah Abdulkadiri

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