Munich, June 9, 2025 — The Europe Today: Portugal have been crowned UEFA Nations League champions for the second time, following a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Spain after a 2-2 draw in extra time at the final in Munich.
Ruben Neves scored the decisive penalty after Diogo Costa saved Alvaro Morata’s effort, sealing the title for Portugal and making them the first team to win the tournament twice, having previously lifted the inaugural trophy in 2019.
The final was full of excitement and tension. Spain opened the scoring midway through the first half when Lamine Yamal sent in a dangerous cross that caused confusion in Portugal’s defense. Martin Zubimendi capitalized on the chaos, firing into an empty net after Costa’s failed clearance.
Portugal responded swiftly through Nuno Mendes, who scored his first international goal with a precise low shot from the edge of the box past Unai Simon.
Spain regained the lead before halftime, thanks to a sharp finish from Mikel Oyarzabal following a quick build-up in the area.
In the second half, Cristiano Ronaldo, quiet until the hour mark, came to life. He found space between defenders and converted a pinpoint cross from Mendes to equalize once again.
The game remained deadlocked through extra time, pushing the contest to penalties. Both teams converted their early spot-kicks until Costa’s crucial save from Morata.
Neves’s composed finish handed Portugal the trophy, sparking jubilant celebrations led by Ronaldo — who lifted the Nations League trophy once again, six years after doing so on home soil.
For Spain, it was a heartbreaking end to an otherwise memorable campaign, including a dramatic 5-4 semifinal win over France.
Portugal, however, showed poise under pressure and now stand as UEFA Nations League champions for the second time — a feat unmatched by any other nation
