Cristiano Ronaldo was overcome with emotion after Portugal’s dramatic victory over Spain in the UEFA Nations League final, lifting the trophy despite leaving the pitch injured before the decisive shoot-out. The Portuguese icon, who scored his country’s second goal in the 2-2 draw, watched from the sidelines as Ruben Neves sealed the win with the final penalty in Munich’s Allianz Arena.
The night was billed as a generational clash—17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal versus the 40-year-old Ronaldo. But it was Nuno Mendes who arguably stole the spotlight, keeping Yamal quiet while also contributing a goal and an assist, including the cross Ronaldo converted for his 138th international goal.
Spain had started brightly, with Martin Zubimendi finishing a move he initiated in the 21st minute. Portugal struck back swiftly through Mendes, before Mikel Oyarzabal restored Spain’s lead with a clever finish from Pedri’s assist.
Portugal turned up the heat in the second half, and Ronaldo’s volley from Mendes’ deflected cross brought them level on the hour. Despite both sides creating chances, including a late header from Diogo Jota, extra time couldn’t separate them.
In the penalty shootout, Morata’s miss proved decisive as Ramos, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, Mendes, and Neves all converted for Portugal.
With a World Cup showdown possible in 2026, this classic only stoked the rivalry further. And as Portugal lifted their second Nations League title, Ronaldo added yet another chapter to his storied career—this time as a captain and talisman at 40.
Swifteradio.com
