Cristiano Ronaldo scores 138th international goal as Portugal defeat Spain 5-3 on penalties in UEFA Nations League 2025 final

New Delhi: Portugal defeated Spain 5-3 in a penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw to win the Nations League, with Cristiano Ronaldo visibly emotional during the celebration.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s 138th international goal forced a penalty shootout in the final. Spain’s Alvaro Morata missed a crucial penalty, allowing Ruben Neves to score the winning goal for Portugal. The victory prompted jubilant celebrations, particularly from the Portuguese captain.

Spain’s undefeated streak, dating back to March 2023, continued with a thrilling 5-4 semifinal win against France, securing their place in Sunday’s Munich final.

Following their European Championship victory last year, Spain appeared poised for another title win after Martin Zubimendi scored his second international goal in the 21st minute.

Portugal’s Nuno Mendes scored a tying goal, shortly after the opposing team took the lead, capitalizing on an assist from Cristiano Ronaldo.

Midfielder Pedri’s skillful pass set up Mikel Oyarzabal, the scorer of last year’s European Championship final winning goal against England, to regain Spain’s advantage before halftime.

The match between Portugal and Spain was anticipated as a contest between veteran Cristiano Ronaldo and rising star Lamine Yamal, highlighting a generational gap in talent.

Portugal’s Ronaldo equalized with a close-range shot shortly after the hour mark, capitalizing on an opportunity while Yamal’s team failed to score.

Portugal won the penalty shootout after a late injury to Ronaldo and a scoreless extra time period.