Tearful Cristiano Ronaldo lands yet another trophy as Portugal beat rivals Spain on penalties to win the Nations League after veteran superstar equalised in thrilling final
Portugal beat Spain in Munich on Sunday to become the first ever two-time winners of the UEFA Nations League.
The final ended 2-2 after 90 minutes and — following a goalless half hour of extra time — went all the way to a penalty shootout.
Portugal, who were the first ever UNL champions when they beat the Netherlands in the 2019 final, won the shootout 5-3.
Eight of the nine spot-kicks taken were converted successfully — including one from Bruno Fernandes — but Alvaro Morata saw his effort saved by Portugal keeper Diogo Costa.
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo had been subbed off before extra time, so did not take part in the shootout.
But the former Real Madrid and Manchester United star was at the centre of the post-game celebrations, having been pictured in tears after his side’s victory was secured.
Portugal are UEFA Nations League champions again after beating Spain in a penalty shootout
Martin Zubimendi opened the scoring in Sunday’s game at the Allianz Arena in Munich
No 21 Mikel Oyarzabal also found the net for Spain, beating the goalkeeper with a deft finish
Portugal left back Nuno Mendes scored one goal for Portugal before setting up another
Mendes netted Portugal’s first goal of the final with a powerful left-footed shot in the first half
Cristiano Ronaldo got Portugal’s second goal on Sunday – the 138th of his international career
Ronaldo made it 2-2 just after the hour mark by volleying home from a deflected Mendes cross
Spain twice led in the first half courtesy of goals from Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Oyarzabal coming either side of a fine equaliser by Nuno Mendes.
Portugal had spent much of the first half chasing the ball as Spain dominated possession at the Allianz Arena.
But the champions of 2019 hit back again just after the hour mark when 40-year-old Ronaldo volleyed home the 138th goal of his senior international career.
Ronaldo’s goal was set up by a brilliant run and cross from Mendes, who skinned Lamine Yamal in the process.
Portugal’s legendary skipper was subbed off due to an injury issue in the 88th minute, meaning he was forced the watch extra time from the dugout.
Spain then also withdrew their biggest star at half-time in extra time when Yamal made his exit, having struggled in his one-on-one battle against Mendes.
Portugal had started the game firmly on the back foot, but they shaded the second half and also looked the more likely of the two sides to find a winner in extra time.
Nelson Semedo missed a golden chance to make it 3-2 before Mendes saw a strong penalty appeal turned down.
The last attack of the night then ended with Diogo Jota heading over the bar from close range.
More to follow.
