Rúben Neves struck the decisive penalty after Álvaro Morata's miss as Portugal defeated Spain 5–3 in a dramatic shootout, following a 2–2 draw in Munich on Sunday, to clinch their second UEFA Nations League title.

Portugal twice came from behind during normal time, showcasing resilience and unity that proved crucial in the final outcome.

"Our fighting spirit and togetherness were decisive today," said Bruno Fernandes, who successfully converted his penalty, speaking to RTL.
"When we stay together like this, we're very difficult to beat."

Spain drew first blood in the 21st minute when Martín Zubimendi capitalised on a lapse in Portugal’s defence to fire La Roja into the lead. However, Portugal responded swiftly. Just five minutes later, Nuno Mendes equalised with a brilliant low finish after being played through by Pedro Neto.

Mikel Oyarzabal, who had also scored in the Euro 2024 final and the 2023 Nations League final, restored Spain’s lead just before the break, punishing Portugal for losing possession deep in their own half. Pedri combined with Oyarzabal, who slotted past Diogo Costa to make it 2–1.

Cristiano Ronaldo, quiet for much of the match just as he had been before scoring the semi-final winner against Germany, delivered once again. In the 61st minute, Mendes sent in a cross that took a deflection, and Ronaldo outmuscled Marc Cucurella to volley the ball into the net, levelling the score at 2–2.

Ronaldo, clearly struggling with cramp, was substituted late in normal time. Although Portugal appeared the stronger side during extra time, no further goals came, sending the match to penalties.

Both nations converted their first three spot-kicks. Mendes calmly struck Portugal’s fourth. Morata, stepping up next for Spain, fired straight at Diogo Costa. Neves then sealed the title, converting coolly as red and green flags erupted in the stands.

On the touchline, Ronaldo was unable to watch, burying his face in a teammate’s back. As Neves found the net, Ronaldo dropped to his knees, embraced by jubilant teammates and staff.

This triumph marked Portugal’s second competitive victory over Spain in their long footballing rivalry. The only previous win came in Euro 2004 when a 19-year-old Ronaldo featured on the wing in a 1–0 victory that eliminated Spain from the tournament.

With this triumph, Portugal became the first team to win the UEFA Nations League twice, having also claimed the inaugural title in 2019. It is Portugal’s third major international trophy, alongside Euro 2016.

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente reflected on the defeat, saying:
“We did a lot well, but in football, sometimes things happen and the opponent is able to beat you. It was an equal match.”

Portugal’s Persistence Pays Off
Despite the early pressure from Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal, Spain’s opening goal came in scrappy fashion. Yamal’s lofted effort from outside the box caused confusion in Portugal’s defence, and Zubimendi capitalised on the failed clearance to fire home.

The goal was deserved based on Spain's early dominance, but Portugal refused to fold. Nuno Mendes equalised almost immediately, driving a low shot across goal after a clever pass from Neto.

Just before half-time, Spain again pounced on a defensive lapse. After pressing high and regaining possession, Pedri linked with Oyarzabal, whose finish was clinical.

Despite being largely anonymous for much of the first hour, Ronaldo stepped up when it mattered most. He shrugged off Cucurella and volleyed in the equaliser with 61 minutes gone — his fourth goal in ten appearances against Spain, following his famous hat-trick in the 2018 World Cup group stage draw.

Ronaldo signalled to the bench in the final minutes of regulation time after pulling up with an apparent injury. He left the pitch with three minutes remaining.

While Spain had previously won the 2023 Nations League on penalties and might have felt confident heading into the shootout, Portugal were flawless. Neves’ winning penalty sent the Portuguese bench into raptures, with a limping Ronaldo among the first to join the on-pitch celebrations.