Munich, June 9, 2025: Cristiano Ronaldo was visibly emotional as Portugal claimed the UEFA Nations League title after a thrilling 5–3 penalty shootout victory over Spain, following a 2–2 draw after extra time.
Ronaldo, who scored his 138th international goal during the match, was instrumental in keeping Portugal’s hopes alive, leveling the score in the second half to send the final into a dramatic shootout. Spanish striker Álvaro Morata’s miss proved decisive, allowing Ruben Neves to convert the winning penalty and ignite jubilant celebrations among the Portuguese squad. The 40-year-old captain was overcome with emotion as he lifted the trophy, possibly marking one of his final major international triumphs.
Spain entered the final on the back of a 5–4 thriller against France in the semi-final and an unbeaten run stretching back to March 2023. They appeared poised for another title after Martín Zubimendi scored in the 21st minute, capitalizing on their early dominance.
Portugal quickly responded, with Nuno Mendes finishing calmly following a slick move initiated by Ronaldo. Spain regained the lead through Mikel Oyarzabal, who latched onto a sublime pass from Pedri shortly before halftime. The Real Sociedad forward had previously netted the winner in last year’s European Championship final.
Billed as a generational duel between the legendary Ronaldo and Spain’s teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal, the match saw the veteran rise to the occasion. Yamal, a rising star and Ballon d’Or contender, struggled to make a significant impact, while Ronaldo capitalized on a chance just after the hour mark to level the game at 2–2.
An injury forced Ronaldo off late in the game, and neither side could break the deadlock in extra time. Portugal held their nerve in the shootout, converting all five penalties to seal a memorable victory and their second Nations League crown.
