Portugal triumphed over Spain in a dramatic UEFA Nations League final at the Allianz Arena, winning 5-3 on penalties after a gripping 2-2 draw in regulation and extra time. Cristiano Ronaldo and Nuno Mendes starred in a thrilling encounter, helping the Seleção secure their second Nations League title.

First-Half Fireworks
Spain began strongly, dominating possession with slick passing. They were rewarded in the 21st minute when a poor clearance from Joao Neves fell to Martin Zubimendi, who slotted home with ease. Portugal responded swiftly, as Cristiano Ronaldo held up play for Pedro Neto to find Nuno Mendes, who smashed a low shot into the corner to equalize.

Just before half-time, Spain reclaimed the lead. Mikel Oyarzabal slipped away from Goncalo Inacio to finish a clever through-ball from Pedri.

Ronaldo Delivers Again
In the second half, Mendes once again tormented the Spanish defense, burning past Lamine Yamal to deliver a deflected cross that found Ronaldo. The Portuguese captain muscled past Marc Cucurella and passed the ball into the net to make it 2-2.

Both sides came close to a winner, with Diogo Costa and Unai Simon making crucial saves. Extra time couldn’t separate them, and the match moved to a penalty shootout.

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Shootout Glory
Portugal were flawless from the spot with Goncalo Ramos, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, Nuno Mendes, and Ruben Neves converting their penalties. Costa saved Alvaro Morata’s effort, handing Portugal the win.

Portugal Player Ratings:

• Diogo Costa (6/10): Unconvincing for the opener, but redeemed himself in the shootout.

• Joao Neves (4/10): At fault for Spain’s opener, looked out of position.

• Goncalo Inacio (5/10): Struggled defensively, booked early.

• Ruben Dias (6/10): Steady, but unable to prevent either goal.

• Nuno Mendes (9/10): Scored, assisted, and neutralized Yamal—a standout performance.

• Vitinha (6/10): Neat on the ball but struggled against Spain’s midfield.

• Bernardo Silva (5/10): Ineffective and lightweight in key moments.

• Bruno Fernandes (6/10): Lacked rhythm but hit a superb effort that was ruled out.

• Francisco Conceicao (5/10): Hard-working but quiet.

• Cristiano Ronaldo (8/10): Took his goal well and was pivotal in the final third.

• Pedro Neto (7/10): Created Mendes’ goal and was energetic.

Substitutes:

• Nelson Semedo (6/10): Balanced the team well after replacing Neves.

• Ruben Neves (6/10): Scored the decisive penalty.

• Rafael Leao (7/10): Injected pace and threat.

• Renato Veiga (6/10): Helped stabilize the backline.

• Goncalo Ramos (5/10): Made little impact.

• Diogo Jota (5/10): Missed a crucial header late on.

Manager – Roberto Martinez (9/10):
Tactically astute and confident with his substitutions, Martinez vindicated the faith shown in him by Ronaldo and fans alike.