After a wild final in Munich, Portugal defeated their neighbors, Spain, in a penalty shootout to claim their second Nations League trophy.
There was nothing separating the two teams when the referee signaled the conclusion of normal time, despite Cristiano Ronaldo bringing Portugal even at 2-2 in the 61st minute.
When Ruben Neves scored the game-winning penalty after Diogo Costa saved Alvaro Morata’s spot shot, Portugal captain Ronaldo, who had been substituted out before extra time, collapsed to the ground and wept with happiness on the sidelines.
After Portugal failed to clear their lines, Spain, the 2023 winners, took the lead in the 21st minute through a goal from Martin Zubimendi.
Five minutes later, Nuno Mendes put a low, angled shot past Unai Simon and into the far corner of the net, ending their lead.
La Roja’s lead was regained before halftime by Mikel Oyarzabal, who scored a late victory in the European Championship final against England last year.
Ronaldo, however, saved Portugal when he bullied Marc Cucurella to get to Mendes’ deflected cross and hook a close-range volley in.
Before Morata’s feeble attempt was stopped by Costa, Goncalo Ramos, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, and Nuno Mendes all smoothly scored their penalties.
Additionally, Spain, who were competing for the same honor, lost out to Portugal as Neves’ final penalty kick made them the first side to win two Nations League titles.