Portugal Beat Spain on Penalties in Nations League Final - Bloom Pakistan

Portugal Beat Spain on Penalties in Nations League Final

Islamabad, June 9, 2025: Portugal vs Spain Nations League Final 2025 ended in dramatic fashion as Portugal clinched the title with a 5-3 victory on penalties after a pulsating 2-2 draw in normal and extra time.

The match, played at Allianz Arena, saw both teams trade blows in a thrilling contest before goalkeeper Diogo Costa’s heroics sealed a second UEFA Nations League title for the Seleção.

Spain began with a dominant first half, showcasing their trademark possession play. Their breakthrough came in the 21st minute when a defensive lapse from Portugal allowed Martin Zubimendi to fire home from close range. Joao Neves, struggling in an unfamiliar right-back role, could only clear the ball weakly into Zubimendi’s path.

However, Portugal responded quickly. Cristiano Ronaldo held off his marker expertly before Pedro Neto fed Nuno Mendes, whose thunderous strike from the edge of the box leveled the score. Just before halftime, Spain struck again. A slick pass from Pedri found Mikel Oyarzabal, who timed his run perfectly to finish past Costa.

Ronaldo Equalizes Again Before Penalties Decide It

Portugal pulled level once more in the 59th minute. Nuno Mendes, sensational all game, outpaced Yamine Lamal and delivered a cross that found Ronaldo. The Portuguese legend shrugged off Marc Cucurella and calmly slotted the ball into the net, making it 2-2.

Despite chances at both ends—including strong saves from Costa and Unai Simon—the deadlock couldn’t be broken in extra time. Portugal had a penalty shout when Mendes was brought down in the box, but the referee waved it off. A long-range strike from Pedro Porro nearly stunned Costa, while Jota’s header just missed the target.

Portugal Win on Penalties – Costa the Hero Again

In the shootout, Portugal’s spot-kick takers—Ramos, Vitinha, Fernandes, Mendes, and finally Ruben Neves—were flawless. Diogo Costa made a crucial save from Alvaro Morata, tipping the balance in Portugal’s favor. Neves stepped up and powered home the winning penalty to crown Portugal UEFA Nations League 2025 champions.

Player Ratings: Portugal’s Heroes and Misses

Diogo Costa (6/10): Could’ve done better for Spain’s opener but redeemed himself with a vital shootout save.
Joao Neves (4/10): Out of position and it showed. His clearance led to Spain’s first goal.
Goncalo Inacio (5/10): Early yellow card and caught napping for Spain’s second goal.
Ruben Dias (6/10): Solid at the back but lacked support from his defensive line.
Nuno Mendes (9/10): Outstanding. Scored once, assisted once, and locked down Spain’s right side.
Vitinha (6/10): Had trouble asserting himself in midfield but was neat in possession.
Bernardo Silva (5/10): Physically outmatched, shifted positions with little impact.
Bruno Fernandes (6/10): Energetic but lacked his usual precision. Had a goal ruled out for offside.
Francisco Conceicao (5/10): Limited influence, replaced at halftime.
Pedro Neto (7/10): Lively on the flank and created Mendes’ equalizer.
Cristiano Ronaldo (8/10): Vintage display of leadership and composure under pressure.

Portugal’s latest triumph adds another trophy to their modern golden era, with Cristiano Ronaldo once again proving decisive on the international stage. With standout performances from Mendes and Costa, the Seleção’s depth and resilience saw them past a spirited Spanish side.