Portugal Triumphs Over Spain, Secures Second UEFA Nations League Crown After Penalty Shootout
Portugal Triumphs Over Spain, Secures Second UEFA Nations League Crown After Penalty Shootout
At the Allianz Arena, Spain seized a 2-1 advantage shortly before the interval in the UEFA Nations League final against Portugal.
The Furia Roja, consistent with their trademark style, executed high pressing and swift, precise ball movement from the onset. Their early vigor yielded opportunities for Pedri and Williams, though neither could capitalize.
The deadlock was broken in the 21st minute when Zubimendi concluded a rapid counter-attack he had orchestrated. Portugal swiftly responded five minutes later, with Mendes equalizing through a low strike following a resolute solo effort.
As the first half drew to a close, Bernardo Silva’s lapse in possession allowed Pedri to recover the ball and set up Oyarzabal for Spain’s second goal.
In a match reminiscent of their semi-final resurgence against Germany, Portugal’s manager Roberto Martinez once again sought inspiration from his substitutes.
Despite the scarcity of clear chances in extra time—most notably Porro’s ambitious long-range attempt veering wide—neither team secured a winner, thus necessitating penalties to resolve the contest for the first time since Euro 2012.
Following 120 minutes that ended in a 2-2 stalemate, Portugal emerged victorious 5-3 in the shootout. Spain had twice taken the lead through Zubimendi and Oyarzabal, with Portugal equalizing each time—first through Mendes and later via Ronaldo shortly after the hour mark.
Although Spain recorded a higher expected goals tally (2.06 to 1.02), it was Portugal who proved more clinical from the penalty spot. All five of their penalty takers successfully converted, while Morata’s miss—saved by Costa—proved pivotal.
This victory secures Portugal’s second UEFA Nations League title, following their 2019 success, and consigns Spain to the role of runners-up for the second time after their 2021 defeat to France.
