PORTUGAL WIN NATIONS LEAGUE TITLE WITH TRIUMPH OVER SPAIN – Ronaldo’s 138th international goal took the final to a shootout
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo was in tears as he led his country to their second Nations League title by beating holders Spain 5-3 on penalties following a thrilling 2-2 draw after extra time.
Ronaldo’s 138th international goal took the final to a shootout, with Alvaro Morata’s miss proving costly for Spain as Ruben Neves struck the winning spot kick to spark wild scenes of celebration, emotion overwhelming the veteran captain.
Spain’s exhilarating 5-4 victory over France in Thursday’s semi-final ensured Luis de la Fuente’s side had continued an unbeaten run that stretched back to March 2023 coming into Sunday’s showpiece final in Munich.
They appeared on course for yet another trophy, on the back last year’s European Championship triumph, as Martin Zubimendi tapped home his second international goal in the 21st minute.
The holders’ lead did not last long, however, as flying Portugal full-back Nuno Mendes slotted home the equaliser after good work from Ronaldo in the build-up.
A sublime pass from midfielder Pedri helped Mikel Oyarzabal, who netted the winner against England in last year’s European Championship final, restore Spain’s lead before the break.
Ronaldo went off injured late on and neither side could find a winner in extra time, with the game going to a shootout and Portugal netting all five of their penalties to claim the trophy.
