On Sunday, June 8, 2025, in a rare final derby between Spain and Portugal, held at the “Allianz Arena” in Munich, both teams showcased skill and drama. Spain took the lead twice, but Portugal twice came back — powered by veteran Cristiano Ronaldo’s instinct. In the penalty shootout, hero Ruben Neves converted the decisive kick — 5:3 for Portugal.
This triumph marked the first for the team under Roberto Martínez’s leadership and the second Nations League title after 2019. It capped Portugal’s colorful journey, which saw them emerge from the group stage and defeat favorites in dramatic matches.
Match flow and key moments
Spain takes the lead twice
- 25th minute: Martín Zubimendi opens the scoring with a shot into the empty net after a cross from Yamal.
- 45th minute: Mikel Oyarzabal doubles the lead with an assist from Pedri — 2:1 before the break.
Portugal fights back in the second half
- 26th minute: Before halftime, Nuno Mendes levels the score with a powerful strike — 1:1.
- 61st minute: Cristiano Ronaldo, who turned 40 at the time of the match, scores his 138th international goal, making it 2:2.
The match went to extra time, where the score remained unchanged.
Penalty shootout and heroic moments
After a draw, the match went to penalties again. Portugal was flawless: 5 hits out of 5. Spain missed one — Morata’s. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa was solid — saving every shot.
The decisive penalty was scored by Ruben Neves, bringing the trophy home and a burst of emotion.
Team analysis
Portugal
Ronaldo: although he left in the 88th minute due to injury, he managed to score a historic goal: “winning for Portugal is always special,” he commented emotionally.
Nuno Mendes — a standout game: goal, assist, duel with Yamal, and even a penalty goal — named MVP.
Diogo Costa — incredible saves in the shootout, key factor in the win.
Spain
Yamal, Zubimendi, Oyarzabal showed great play, but individual errors and the penalty miss cost them the title.
Morata failed to convert the crucial kick — Navas couldn’t stop Costa.
In the end: Portugal becomes a two-time Nations League champion. The final will be remembered for its drama. Heroes: Ronaldo, who equalized, Nuno Mendes — match MVP, Diogo Costa — the save stabilizer. For Spain — double leads at the break but poor finishing and a world-class goalkeeper dashed their hopes.
Portugal’s title is a blend of experience and youthful energy, earning their second-ever Nations League championship. It’s a victory over Spain that confirms Portugal’s ambitions on the international stage. For Spain, a valuable lesson: control and talent must find their finishing — only then can trophies be won. Both teams gained valuable experience and motivation for future challenges.
