Cristiano Ronaldo wins UEFA Nations League 2025 final with Portugal after penalty shootout vs Spain
Munich, Germany – June 8, 2025 – Portugal has once again etched their name in the annals of football history, defeating fierce Iberian rivals Spain 5-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout after a captivating 2-2 draw in the UEFA Nations League 2025 final. The thrilling encounter, held at the Allianz Arena in Munich, saw a resurgent Portugal, led by the evergreen Cristiano Ronaldo, claim their second Nations League title, becoming the first nation to achieve this feat.
The final was a pulsating affair from start to finish. Spain initially took the lead through Martin Zubimendi in the 21st minute, but Portugal quickly responded with Nuno Mendes leveling the score five minutes later. Mikel Oyarzabal restored Spain’s advantage just before halftime, setting the stage for a tense second half.
The moment Portugal fans had been waiting for arrived in the 61st minute when none other than Cristiano Ronaldo, displaying his trademark clinical finishing, scored the equalizer, bringing the game to 2-2. Despite both teams pushing for a winner in regulation and extra time, the score remained level, leading to the dreaded penalty shootout.
In the shootout, Portugal showed nerves of steel, converting all five of their penalties. The decisive moment came when Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa produced a magnificent save to deny Spain’s Alvaro Morata, giving Portugal the advantage. Ruben Neves then stepped up calmly to slot home the winning penalty, sparking jubilant celebrations among the Portuguese squad and their ecstatic supporters.
Portugal Records and Milestones:
This victory marks several significant achievements for both Portugal and their iconic captain, Cristiano Ronaldo:
- First Nation to Win Two UEFA Nations League Titles: Portugal’s triumph makes them the undisputed most successful nation in the UEFA Nations League, adding the 2025 trophy to their inaugural win in 2019.
- Cristiano Ronaldo’s Enduring Legacy: At 40 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to defy age. His crucial equalizer in the final showcased his unparalleled ability to perform on the biggest stages. This marks his third international trophy with Portugal, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest players of all time. His goal in the final was his 138th international goal in his 219th appearance for Portugal, both extending his own world records. He also became the only player over 40 to score in the Nations League during this campaign.
- Diogo Costa’s Heroics: Goalkeeper Diogo Costa played a pivotal role in the final, with his crucial penalty save securing the trophy for Portugal.
- Roberto Martínez’s Triumph: Under the guidance of coach Roberto Martínez, Portugal has demonstrated a renewed tactical versatility and attacking prowess, culminating in this prestigious victory.
The 2025 UEFA Nations League final will be remembered as a classic, a testament to the thrilling rivalry between Portugal and Spain, and a celebration of Portugal’s resilience and star power, led by the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo.
