Portugal triumphed in the UEFA Nations League final against Spain in Munich, winning 5-3 on penalties after a thrilling 2-2 draw.
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The match was expected to be a showdown between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lamine Yamal, but both were sidelined for the crucial moments.
Ronaldo was substituted in the 88th minute due to a muscle strain, while Yamal watched on in a heavy substitute’s coat.
Diogo Costa saved Alvaro Morata’s penalty, allowing Rúben Neves to score the winner and seal Portugal’s second Nations League title.
Ronaldo celebrated emotionally, claiming his third international trophy after Euro 2016 and the 2019 Nations League, both won from the bench.
Yamal, only 17, showed maturity as he consoled teammates despite Spain’s loss and is expected to enjoy a bright future.
The Barcelona youngster had already won Euro 2024 and remains a strong contender for more silverware, including next year’s FIFA World Cup.
Portugal proved their depth beyond Ronaldo, with standout performances from Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, and Bruno Fernandes during the high-stakes encounter.
Mendes dominated his flank, assisting Ronaldo’s 138th international goal, and later scored confidently in the shootout to lift another major trophy.
Spain’s Martín Zubimendi impressed too, scoring early and likely heading to Arsenal in a £51 million transfer from Real Sociedad, reports ESPN.
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