The 2025 UEFA Nations League final occurred on June 8 at Munich’s Allianz Arena. This was the first-ever Iberian derby in a Nations League final, featuring Spain and Portugal. The match ended 2–2 after extra time and was decided by penalties, with Portugal winning 5–3. Portugal’s second Nations League title made them the first team to claim it twice.
Spain had entered the final as back-to-back finalists and European champions, seeking to secure another trophy. Meanwhile, Portugal pursued a rare Nations League double. This game had it all: goals, drama, a fan fatality, superstar performances, and poetry in penalties.
Lineups
Spain lined up with Unai Simón in goal, César Azpilicueta at right-back, Aymeric Laporte and Pau Torres in central defence, Jordi Alba at left-back, Rodri holding midfield duties, while Pedri and Fabián Ruiz manned the centre. In attack, Álvaro Morata partnered with Mikel Oyarzabal and Ferran Torres on the wings.
Portugal began with Diogo Costa between the posts, João Cancelo at right-back, Rúben Dias and Pepe centrally, Nuno Mendes left-back. In midfield they fielded William Carvalho and Bruno Fernandes, while Bernardo Silva, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Gonçalo Ramos formed the front line.
What Is the UEFA Nations League?
Launched in 2018, the UEFA Nations League replaced international friendlies with meaningful group games. UEFA divided teams into four leagues (A–D), with promotion, relegation, and a four-team finals stage for League A winners. The 2024–25 Nations League involved all European national teams.
Spain topped their group unbeaten and overcame France 5–4 on penalties in the semi-final. Portugal claimed their berth by besting Germany in the semis. With this tournament now in its third edition, it has already become a significant test of squad depth and tactical maturity. This final marked Spain’s third consecutive appearance and Portugal’s second.
Road to the Final
Spain progressed from Group A4 with eight wins and one draw, finishing unbeaten above Switzerland, Czech Republic, and Portugal. They edged into the final by penalty shootout victories over Croatia (2023) and France (2025).
Portugal advanced from Group A1 with five wins and two draws against Belgium, Netherlands, and Poland. They beat Germany 2–1 in their semi-final matchup in Munich. In the group stage, Portugal scored 18 goals and conceded only eight, underlining their attacking prowess.
Spain’s unbeaten streak dated back to March 2023, covering 23 matches. They aimed to cap it with a third straight Nations League final win. Portugal, meanwhile, became the first seven-time League A competitors to reach multiple finals.
How the Match Unfolded
First Half Drama
Spain dominated early possession. In the 21st minute, a quick transition saw Lamine Yamal’s cross flicked into the net by Martín Zubimendi. It was Spain’s first goal inside the Allianz Arena since Euro 2024. Portugal responded immediately—Nuno Mendes drilled low into the bottom corner in the 26th minute. The score was 1–1.
The first half ended dramatically. Pedri’s through ball freed Oyarzabal to poke home the second. “We struggled in the second half but showed grit,” the Spaniard said later.
Second Half Response
Portugal began the second half strongly. Diogo Costa saved Cancelo’s 52nd-minute drive. Cristiano Ronaldo volleyed in from the edge in the 61st minute—his 138th international goal. He suffered a muscular issue and came off in the 88th minute.
Extra Time and Tension
Both teams pushed for the winner in extra time, but fatigue set in. Spain’s Ferran Torres had a chance saved by Costa. Portugal almost broke forward through Bruno Fernandes. The 90 minutes ended 2–2.
Penalty Drama
In the shootout, Spain’s first four takers scored. Morata’s penalty—the fourth—was saved by Costa. Portugal kept their nerves and Rúben Neves sealed it 5–3 with a perfect strike. Portugal rejoiced. Spain was left in agonising defeat.
Specific Match Details & Stats
- Final Score: Spain 2–2 Portugal (Portugal won 5–3 on penalties)
- Attendance: 65,852 at Allianz Arena in Munich
- Possession: Spain 54 % – Portugal 42 %
- Shots: Spain 12, Portugal 9
- Corner Kicks: Spain 8, Portugal 4
- Passing Accuracy: Spain 89 %, Portugal 84 %
- Fouls Committed: Spain 14, Portugal 12
- Man of the Match: Nuno Mendes (Portugal)
Spain’s 2–1 lead at halftime echoed their semi-final vs France. Portugal’s equaliser followed by Ronaldo’s 138th goal repeated key turning points in their past finals. This was their third consecutive Nations League shootout win or loss.
Post-Match Analysis
Spain created more clear-cut chances—5 vs Portugal’s 3—but lacked killer instinct. Portugal targeted transitions and capitalised on set pieces. Ronaldo remains a clinical 0.23 goals-per-game scorer internationally.
Portugal’s back four held firm, with Mendes and Cancelo sealing breaks. Nuno Mendes’ all-round display—goal, cross, composure in shootout—earned him MVP honours. Spain’s midfield trio of Rodri, Pedri, and Ruiz showcased dominance, but lacked the same finishing edge.
Psychologically, this is a confidence boost for Portugal. They are now the first nation to lift two Nations League trophies and match Spain’s 2023 success. Spain’s strong run since 2023 ends in heartbreak.
What the Coaches Said
Spain’s coach, Luis de la Fuente, reflected on the loss:
“The match was balanced. We controlled phases, but the shootout is life or death. We fought till the end and held pride.”
Portugal’s boss, Roberto Martínez, commented:
“Our team defended collectively, transitioned sharply. We stayed focused until the final penalty. We showed heart.”
Ronaldo, tearful, declared:
“Winning for Portugal is always special. Clubs gave me many trophies, but nothing beats this.”
Player of the Match: Nuno Mendes
At 22, Mendes delivered a defining display. He scored the equaliser, recorded two key passes, completed six dribbles, and calmly converted his penalty.
“He cancelled out Yamal and scored a vital goal,” said a pundit. Mendes won the Man of the Match award and added to PSG’s Champions League celebrations just days ago.
Post-Match Victory Celebrations
Portugal’s squad immediately sang “We Are the Champions” and celebrated with manager Martínez and captain Ronaldo. Costa’s late penalty save triggered jubilation. Fans at Allianz Arena erupted alongside those in Lisbon.
Ronaldo embraced teammates and collapsed to his knees in tears. The team returned to Lisbon with the trophy, greeted by thousands chanting “Campeões!”.
President Marcelo rebroadcast the trophy parade in Praça do Comércio. UEFA players presented Portugal’s managers with medals before a fireworks display.
What Next
Spain will refocus on Euro 2028 qualifying, using this loss to sharpen their competitive edge. Their young core is exceptional but lacks finals toughness. They need a clinical finisher to complement their midfield creativity.
Portugal should ride this wave into the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. They now boast two Nations League titles and record-breaking Ronaldo leadership at 40. Nuno Mendes emerges as a future Portugal pillar.
To celebrate your love for the game, check out the official UEFA Nations League match ball or arm yourself with a player’s performance GPS tracker kit to up your training.
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