Portugal have been crowned 2025 UEFA Nations League champions after a dramatic 5-3 penalty shootout win over Spain at the Allianz Arena in Munich. The match ended 2-2 after extra time, with standout performances from Cristiano Ronaldo, Nuno Mendes, Diogo Costa, and Rúben Neves securing Portugal's second Nations League title.

This historic win makes Portugal the first country to win the Nations League twice, having also lifted the inaugural trophy in 2019.

 
⚽ Key Match Highlights: Portugal vs Spain Final

🥅 Cristiano Ronaldo’s 138th International Goal

At age 40, Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 138th international goal, a thunderous volley that brought Portugal level in the second half. The moment further cements his legacy as the oldest player to score in a Nations League final, adding yet another milestone to an already iconic career.

⚡ Nuno Mendes Equalizer

Spain had taken a 2–0 lead with goals from Martín Zubimendi and Mikel Oyarzabal, but Nuno Mendes sparked Portugal’s comeback with a superb equalizer before Ronaldo’s crucial volley. Mendes later converted his penalty in the shootout, showcasing his composure and class under pressure.

🧤 Diogo Costa Saves Morata’s Penalty

The shootout turned when Diogo Costa saved a penalty from Álvaro Morata, swinging the momentum in Portugal’s favor. Costa’s heroics were vital, denying Spain a chance to go ahead and solidifying his reputation as one of Europe’s top shot-stoppers.

🎯 Rúben Neves Winning Penalty

Rúben Neves stepped up with ice-cold precision, converting the decisive penalty that sealed the 5–3 shootout victory. The midfielder’s calm under pressure was symbolic of Portugal’s poise throughout the tournament.

 
📊 Tactical Masterclass by Roberto Martínez

Portugal manager Roberto Martínez delivered a tactical masterclass, balancing experienced stars like Ronaldo with the energy of young talents such as Mendes and João Neves. Against a technically gifted Spain side, Portugal’s counter-attacking setup paid off, especially in the second half.

Martínez’s strategy also proved successful in the semi-final against Germany, where Ronaldo scored his 137th international goal to book Portugal’s place in the final.

 
🏆 Historic Achievement: First Team to Win Twice

Portugal now holds the distinction of being the first nation to win the UEFA Nations League twice (2019 and 2025). The team’s blend of youth and experience, guided by Martínez’s leadership, positions them as serious contenders ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Euro 2026 qualifiers.

 
🔑 What This Means for Portugal

Highlight
Impact
Ronaldo’s 138th goal
Extends all-time record, proves age is just a number
Nuno Mendes equalizer
Marks arrival of a new Portuguese star
Diogo Costa’s penalty save
Pivotal moment that turned the shootout
Neves’ final penalty
Iced the match, calm leadership
Second Nations League title
Portugal becomes the tournament’s most successful side
 
 
🗣️ Post-Match Reactions

“We showed our soul, our fight, and our quality. I’m proud to be Portuguese,” said Cristiano Ronaldo, who hinted this might be his last tournament.
“We’re building something strong for the future,” added Roberto Martínez, who credited the mix of veterans and youth for the team’s chemistry and resilience.
 
Conclusion

Portugal’s victory in the 2025 UEFA Nations League final was a perfect blend of resilience, tactical intelligence, and legendary moments. From Cristiano Ronaldo’s 138th goal to Diogo Costa’s crucial save and Rúben Neves’ winning penalty, this final had all the drama and glory of a football epic.

As Portugal prepares for the 2026 World Cup, this triumph could be the start of another golden chapter in the nation’s football history.

 
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