In a pulsating UEFA Nations League final, Portugal defeated arch-rivals Spain on penalties to claim their second title in the competition. The match ended 2-2 after extra time, before Diogo Costa’s save from Alvaro Morata in the shoot-out handed Roberto Martinez’s side a 5-3 win on penalties at Munich’s Allianz Arena.

Cristiano Ronaldo, now 40, proved once again why he's one of football’s all-time greats. Though he left the pitch in the 88th minute due to injury, he had already made his mark. His 61st-minute strike brought Portugal level for the second time, marking his 138th international goal and eighth in this campaign just behind Sweden’s Viktor Gyokeres.

The final was a showcase of old versus new, with 40-year-old Ronaldo facing off against Spain’s 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal. But it was Nuno Mendes who arguably stole the show. The left-back was outstanding both in defense, keeping Yamal quiet and in attack, scoring Portugal’s first equalizer and assisting Ronaldo's goal. Mendes, just days removed from winning the Champions League with PSG, was named Man of the Match.

Spain had taken the lead twice, first through Martin Zubimendi in the 21st minute, then via Mikel Oyarzabal just before half-time. Portugal responded through Mendes and then Ronaldo to take the game to penalties.

In the shoot-out, Portugal were flawless. Goncalo Ramos, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, Mendes, and Ruben Neves all converted. Morata’s miss proved decisive, and Neves' final kick sparked emotional celebrations. Ronaldo was in tears of joy, lifting the trophy alongside his teammates.

This win brings redemption for manager Roberto Martinez, who secured his first international trophy after a disappointing stint with Belgium’s golden generation. While speculation loomed about his future, this victory may solidify his position ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

With a blend of veteran leadership and young brilliance, Portugal has sent a strong message to the world. As the countdown to North America 2026 begins, both Portugal and Spain will be among the top contenders for global glory.