Portugal Wins Nations League Final on Penalties Over Spain

Portugal defeated Spain in a dramatic UEFA Nations League final in Munich, becoming the competition's first two-time champions after a 2-2 draw led to a 5-3 penalty shootout victory. Spain took the lead twice in the first half through Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Oyarzabal, but Portugal responded with goals from Nuno Mendes and 40-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored his 138th international goal before leaving the match injured in the 88th minute. The match saw standout performances from Mendes, who not only scored but also assisted Ronaldo's goal, and kept Spain's teenage star Lamine Yamal in check. In the decisive shootout, Bruno Fernandes converted for Portugal, while Alvaro Morata's miss, saved by Diogo Costa, proved pivotal. The match highlighted both teams as strong contenders for the upcoming World Cup, with Portugal shading the second half and extra time. Earlier in the day, France secured third place by beating Germany 2-0.