Portugal Wins Nations League After Penalty Shootout Over Spain

Portugal claimed their second UEFA Nations League title after a dramatic 2-2 draw with Spain that was ultimately decided by penalties, with Ruben Neves scoring the decisive spot kick and goalkeeper Diogo Costa making a crucial save. Spain took the lead twice through Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Oyarzabal, but Portugal responded each time with goals from Nuno Mendes and Cristiano Ronaldo, who volleyed his 139th international goal and was pivotal in Portugal's progression to the final. The match featured a highly anticipated generational clash between Portugal's veteran captain Ronaldo and Spain's young star Lamine Yamal, though both players and teammates emphasized the importance of the team over individual battles. Ronaldo acknowledged the media hype around his rivalry with Yamal but praised Spain's overall strength, including players like Pedri and coach Luis de la Fuente. Portugal midfielder João Neves and Spain's Yamal downplayed the personal matchup, focusing instead on the collective strength of their teams. This victory marked a significant achievement for Portugal as the first team to win the Nations League twice, ending a 21-year competitive winless streak against Spain.