Portugal beats Spain in penalty shootout to win 2nd Nations League title

In a dramatic clash between Iberian rivals, Portugal edged past Spain in a 5-3 penalty shootout on Sunday to win their second UEFA Nations League title, following a thrilling 2-2 draw over 120 minutes.

Final Score: Portugal 2-2 Spain (Portugal win 5-3 on penalties)

The match saw twists, tension, and standout performances:

• Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Oyarzabal put Spain ahead 2-1 at halftime.
• Nuno Mendes, later named Man of the Match, had leveled it 1-1 with a powerful effort before Spain retook the lead.
• Cristiano Ronaldo scored a crucial equalizer in the 61st minute — his 138th international goal — to force extra time.

Neither side could break the deadlock in the added 30 minutes, and the match moved to penalties.

Diogo Costa the Hero, Neves seals the win

In the shootout:

• Diogo Costa made the only save, diving left to deny Spain’s second penalty.
• Portugal converted all five of their spot-kicks with confidence.
• Ruben Neves slotted home the decisive fifth penalty to seal the title.

“We knew it would come down to moments,” said Portugal captain Bruno Fernandes. “Diogo [Costa] was massive, and Cristiano led us like he always does.”

Portugal: Nations League Champions (Again)

• First title: 2019 (1-0 vs Netherlands)
• Now: 2025 champions — continuing their success in UEFA’s newest international competition.

This win adds to a golden generation's legacy, with Portugal now boasting two Nations League trophies alongside their historic Euro 2016 triumph.

Notable Stats:

• Cristiano Ronaldo: 138 international goals, extending his world record.
• Portugal’s unbeaten run in 2025: Still intact.
• Spain: Lose their second straight UEFA final after the 2021 Nations League loss to France.

A Nation Celebrates

From Lisbon to Porto, fans erupted in celebration as Portugal lifted silverware once again — proof that their dominance in European football isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

SportsLigue