Portugal crowns the National League champion in a penalty shootout!

Portugal crowns the National League champion in a penalty shootout!

Stuttgart, Deutschland - Portugal sensationally won the UEFA Nations League 2025 UEFA Nations League against Spain. The game, which took place as part of the Final Fours, ended 2-2 after regular playing time and extension, before Portugal prevailed 5: 3 in the penalty shootout. This marks the second title for the Portuguese national team in this competition after the triumphant victory in 2018/19.

The encounter started with a first outcry when João Neves for Portugal scored just over the goal from ten meters. In the 21st minute, Martín Zubimendi brought Spain 1-0 after a clarification attempt by Neves had failed. Nevertheless, Portugal did not decrease and came to a well -deserved compensation in the 26th minute through Nuno Mendes. Before the break, Spain found his way into the goal again when Mikel Oyarzabal scored the 2-1 shortly before the half -time whistle.

drama in the second half

In the second half, Cristiano Ronaldo, who played his 222nd international match, managed to equalize 2-2 in the 61st minute. With his goal, the 40-year-old caused emotional moments on the pitch, especially when he sank into tears after the last penalty. The game remained exciting until the end, while the players tried to force the decision on both sides.

The extension brought some good options, including a shot from Semedo, which missed the lead for Portugal only by millimeters, and a mistake from Pedro Porro for Spain. Ultimately, the decision had to be made in the penalty shootout. Here the nerves of the players showed up, with Spain began with Alvaro Morata, who missed his penalty.

The crucial moment

The penalty shootout began to be balanced when the first three shooters of both teams met. Nuno Mendes converted for Portugal, while Morata could not score for Spain. After all, it was Ruben Neves who converted the decisive penalty and secured Portugal the title. Bruno Fernandes emphasized the fighting spirit and the cohesion of the team, which was crucial for success.

Unfortunately, a tragic incident overshadowed the game when a fan died of the press stand after a fall from the middle rank of the arena. The UEFA Nations League, which has been taking place every two years since 2018/19 and comprises 54 national teams, offers the teams an additional opportunity to qualify for the World Cup and ensure excitement in European football.

While the next season begins with the group games on September 5, 2024, Portugal will be happy to defend his title and on another glorious journey in international football.

More information about the Nations League can be on the pages of Laola1 , Sportschau and em2024 .