Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo was in tears as he led his country to their second UEFA Nations League title by beating holders Spain 5-3 on penalties following a thrilling 2-2 draw after extra time in Sunday’s showpiece match.
Ronaldo’s 138th international goal took the final to a shootout, with Alvaro Morata’s miss proving costly for Spain as Ruben Neves struck the winning spot kick to spark wild scenes of celebration, emotion overwhelming the veteran captain.
“Winning for Portugal is always special,” Ronaldo told Sport TV. “I have many titles with clubs, but nothing is better than winning for Portugal.”
Photo: AP
“It’s tears. It’s duty done and a lot of joy,” he said.
Spain’s exhilarating 5-4 victory over France in Thursday’s semi-final ensured Luis de la Fuente’s side had continued an unbeaten run that stretched back to March 2023 coming into Sunday’s showpiece final in Munich, Germany.
They appeared on course for yet another trophy, on the back last year’s EURO triumph, as Martin Zubimendi tapped home his second international goal in the 21st minute.
However, the holders’ lead did not last long as flying Portugal full-back Nuno Mendes slotted home the equalizer after good work from Ronaldo in the buildup.
A sublime pass from midfielder Pedri helped Mikel Oyarzabal, who netted the winner against England in the EURO 2024 final, restore Spain’s lead before the break.
The tussle between the Iberian neighbors was billed as a clash between old and new — 40-year-old and five-times Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo and Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
While Yamal, among the favorites to take home one of the most prestigious individual awards this year, struggled to make inroads, Ronaldo pounced on his chance, firing Portugal level from close range just past the hour mark.
Ronaldo went off injured late on and neither side could find a winner in extra time, with the game going to a shootout and Portugal netting all five of their penalties to claim the trophy.
“Details do make the difference, and that was a game which I think was super balanced, but when we were coming to the end of the extra time, I thought we were doing enough to avoid going to penalties,” Spain coach De La Fuente said. “Sadly, that’s what decided the match, and they, on the night, were just slightly better and more effective in the shootout.”
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