Portugal Outlasts Spain to Clinch Second Nations League Title in Nerve-Wracking Shootout

Munich, Germany | June 8, 2025

In a final that matched intensity with precision, Portugal emerged as UEFA Nations League champions for the second time, defeating long-time rivals Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout. The match, played at the Allianz Arena in Munich, ended 2-2 after extra time before Portugal edged the shootout 5-3.

For Portugal, this victory represents more than just silverware—it reaffirms their position as a tactical and resilient footballing force in Europe’s evolving competitive landscape.

An Early Spanish Statement, Met with Portuguese Resolve
Spain opened proceedings with a confident display of possession-based football, culminating in a 21st-minute goal from Martín Zubimendi, who slotted home from the edge of the area after a patient buildup. But the Iberian derby was far from settled. Portugal’s response was swift and emphatic: Nuno Mendes answered in the 25th minute with a thundering strike from the top of the box, briefly turning momentum toward the Seleção.

Spain’s technical edge again showed before the half, with Mikel Oyarzabal restoring the lead after a delicate through ball from Pedri, reminding fans of La Roja’s traditional midfield dominance.

VAR Drama and Ronaldo’s Impact
A disallowed goal from Bruno Fernandes, chalked off for offside after a close VAR decision early in the second half, threatened to demoralize the Portuguese. But the ever-present Cristiano Ronaldo, at 40 still commanding attention, equalized in the 59th minute—capitalizing on chaos in the box after a deflected cross by Mendes.

Ronaldo, however, would not finish the match. He was substituted in the 86th minute with a suspected muscle strain, prompting concerns about the veteran’s longevity at the highest level.

Extra Time, Nerves, and Penalties
Portugal seized the initiative in extra time. Rafael Leão and Mendes repeatedly stretched the Spanish defense, though neither side could find a winner in open play. Spain, back in control during the second period of extra time, lacked the cutting edge to crack a disciplined Portuguese backline.

The penalty shootout was clinical—until Spain’s Álvaro Morata missed their fourth kick, slicing his effort wide. Rúben Neves, as composed as ever, buried Portugal’s final spot-kick to secure a 5-3 victory in the shootout.

Legacy and Implications
For Portugal, the win adds to their UEFA Euro 2016 triumph and their first Nations League title in 2019, confirming a golden era in Portuguese football. As SKB Journal sports analysts note, this generation—anchored by experience and emerging talents like Mendes and Leão—has proven adept at evolving their style without sacrificing grit.

Spain’s loss, meanwhile, highlights the growing concern that while La Roja continues to produce technically gifted players, its lack of clinical finishers is undermining tournament ambitions.

The Nations League, though often criticized for its timing and complexity, offered a platform for two footballing philosophies to collide—and once again, Portugal’s pragmatism triumphed over possession.

Published by SKB Journal-Sports Team