The 2025 UEFA Nations League Final between Portugal and Spain delivered a thrilling encounter, culminating in a dramatic penalty shootout victory for Portugal. The match, held at Allianz Arena in Munich on June 8, 2025, saw Portugal claim their second Nations League title after a hard-fought 2-2 draw in extra time.
Spain took the lead in the 21st minute with a goal from M. Zubimendi, but Portugal responded quickly. Nuno Mendes, having a stellar night, equalized in the 26th minute, assisted by P. Neto, showcasing Portugal's attacking prowess. The game remained intense, with both teams displaying tactical discipline and creating scoring opportunities. Just before halftime, in the 45th minute, Spain's Mikel Oyarzabal found the back of the net, assisted by Pedri, regaining the lead for Spain.
The second half saw Portugal pushing for an equalizer, and their efforts paid off in the 61st minute when Cristiano Ronaldo scored, leveling the score at 2-2. However, the Portuguese star had to leave the field due to an injury in the final moments of the game, leaving fans concerned. Despite Ronaldo's absence, Portugal maintained their composure and battled through extra time.
With the score still tied after extra time, the match went to a penalty shootout. The tension was palpable as both teams prepared for the decisive moment. Gonçalo Ramos stepped up first for Portugal and calmly converted, giving his team a 1-0 lead. The shootout remained tight, with both sides converting their penalties. Ultimately, it was Ruben Neves who scored the winning penalty for Portugal after Alvaro Morata missed his chance for Spain, securing the victory for Portugal.
Throughout the match, there were several notable moments. Goncalo Inacio received a yellow card in the 19th minute, and F. Ruiz of Spain was also cautioned in the 33rd minute. As the game wore on, both teams made substitutions to inject fresh energy into their squads. Portugal's R. Neves replaced F. Conceicao in the 45th minute, while R. Veiga and R. Leao came on for Goncalo Inacio and B. Silva, respectively, in the 74th minute. Spain's M. Merino replaced F. Ruiz in the 75th minute. P. Neto of Portugal received a yellow card in the 82nd minute.
Portugal's victory marked their second Nations League title, adding to their triumph in 2019. The win was particularly sweet, considering the injury to Cristiano Ronaldo late in the game. Despite his absence during the penalty shootout, Ronaldo was seen smiling from the sidelines as Neves sealed the victory, highlighting the team spirit and camaraderie within the Portuguese squad.
