Cristiano Ronaldo added yet another emotional chapter to his legendary career as Portugal triumphed over Spain in a dramatic UEFA Nations League final at the Allianz Arena on Sunday, June 8. After a thrilling 2-2 draw in extra time, Portugal edged out Spain 5-3 on penalties, clinching their second Nations League title and denying the Euro 2024 champions back-to-back international trophies.
A Night of High Drama and Emotion:
-
Ronaldo, at 39, delivered a classic performance, scoring Portugal’s second goal to take the match into extra time. It was his 138th international goal, extending his record as the highest goal scorer in men’s international football, far ahead of Lionel Messi and Sunil Chhetri.
-
The goal came in the 63rd minute when Ronaldo pounced on a loose ball inside the box, showing elite composure and timing.
-
The moment marked a symbolic clash: Ronaldo vs. Yamal, the old guard vs. the new wave. While 16-year-old Lamine Yamal had moments of flair, he couldn’t make a decisive impact. Ronaldo, meanwhile, did what he’s done for two decades—deliver in crunch moments.
Match Summary:
-
Spain led 2-1 at halftime thanks to goals from Martin Zubimendi (21’) and Mikel Oyarzabal (45’), with Nuno Mendes scoring Portugal’s first (26’) to briefly equalize.
-
Ronaldo’s equaliser ensured no further goals were scored in extra time.
-
In the penalty shootout, Portugal converted all five kicks. The decisive moment came when Alvaro Morata missed, and Ruben Neves sealed the title with his conversion.
The Emotional Aftermath:
-
Ronaldo, substituted late in extra time due to injury, received a standing ovation from fans and a warm embrace from coach Roberto Martinez.
-
When Neves buried the final penalty, Ronaldo—watching from the sidelines—broke into tears, overwhelmed by the significance of the win. It marked yet another major international triumph for Portugal after Euro 2016 and the 2019 Nations League.
Significance:
-
Portugal’s resilience was on full display against a Spain side considered overwhelming favourites after their Euro 2024 triumph.
-
For Ronaldo, this win isn't just another trophy—it’s a validation of longevity, legacy, and leadership at the highest level.
-
The final showcased a generational crossover, with rising stars like Yamal and Pedri taking on a team still defined by the presence of Ronaldo.
This victory could be one of Ronaldo’s last major tournament wins with Portugal, making it all the more poignant. His tears weren’t just of joy—they were of pride, pain, and the weight of two decades at football’s summit.
