MUNICH (Germany), June 9 — Ruben Neves netted the winning penalty after Alvaro Morata’s miss, as Portugal edged Spain 5-3 in a shootout following a 2-2 draw to secure their second UEFA Nations League title.
MUNICH (Germany), June 9 — Ruben Neves netted the winning penalty after Alvaro Morata’s miss, as Portugal edged Spain 5-3 in a shootout following a 2-2 draw to secure their second UEFA Nations League title.
Portugal twice came from behind in regular time to force extra time, showcasing resilience and teamwork.
“Our fighting spirit and unity made the difference today,” said Bruno Fernandes, who scored one of Portugal’s penalties.
Spain struck first in the 21st minute when Martin Zubimendi capitalised on slack defending, but Nuno Mendes equalised five minutes later. Just before halftime, Mikel Oyarzabal — who also scored in the Euro 2024 and 2023 Nations League finals — restored Spain’s lead.
Cristiano Ronaldo, largely quiet until then, levelled again in the 61st minute with a sharp volley after a deflected cross from Mendes. He was substituted near the end of regulation due to cramps.
The match remained even through extra time, pushing the tie to penalties. Both teams converted their first three, with Mendes slotting in Portugal’s fourth. Morata’s tame attempt was saved by Diogo Costa, setting up Neves to seal the win. As Neves struck, Ronaldo — unable to watch — dropped to his knees in emotion.
The victory marked just Portugal’s second competitive win over Spain, their first being a 1-0 triumph in Euro 2004, where a young Ronaldo featured on the wing. It also made Portugal the first nation to win the Nations League twice, adding to their Euro 2016 title.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente reflected on the match, calling it balanced: “We did many things right, but sometimes in football, the opponent takes their chance and wins.”
Spain had started brighter, with Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal troubling Portugal’s defence. Their first goal came after a defensive miscue allowed Zubimendi to score.
Portugal quickly responded, with Mendes finishing a slick move initiated by Pedro Neto. Spain then regained the lead after capitalising on a midfield error, with Pedri and Oyarzabal combining to score.
Ronaldo’s equaliser brought the match to life, his fourth goal against Spain in 10 appearances — the first three scored in a memorable 2018 World Cup draw.
Despite limping off late, Ronaldo was part of the celebrations as Neves’ cool finish sealed a famous win for Portugal. — AFP
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