Portugal defeats Spain and wins the 2025 UEFA Nations League
La Jugada
On June 8, 2025, at Munich’s Allianz Arena, Portugal claimed its second UEFA Nations League title by beating Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout (5–3) after a thrilling 2–2 draw. The match delivered high-intensity football and emotional highs, especially for veteran Cristiano Ronaldo.
🏟️ A clash of Iberian giants
The final lived up to its billing, featuring two titans of European football:
Martín Zubimendi gave Spain the lead in the 11th minute.
Nuno Mendes equalized for Portugal (26’), before Mikel Oyarzabal put Spain ahead again.
Cristiano Ronaldo, at 40, equalized in the 60th minute.
With the match tied, it went to penalties where Portugal was flawless.
😢 Morata misses, Ronaldo collapses in joy
Spain’s Álvaro Morata was the only player to miss his shot, with Diogo Costa making the save. Cristiano Ronaldo, possibly playing his last major final, collapsed to his knees in tears — a historic moment for Portuguese football.
🏆 A symbolic victory for Portugal
Portugal becomes the first nation to win the UEFA Nations League twice (after their 2019 triumph), confirming their place among Europe’s elite.
🔗 Full match analysis on Reuters 🔗 Watch the highlights on UEFA.com
📊 Match Summary
Venue: Allianz Arena, Munich
Attendance: 65,000
Goals: Zubimendi (11’), Mendes (26’), Oyarzabal (38’), Ronaldo (60’)
