40 years-old Cristiano Ronaldo lifted another trophy with Portugal, his third with the national team after a dramatic UEFA Nations League final win over rivals Spain in Munich.
Ronaldo, who was substituted in the 88th minute while Portugal was searching for a winner, made his mark with a close-range finish in the 61st minute his 138th international goal as Portugal came from behind twice before sealing the win on penalties.
It was vintage Ronaldo, limited touches (just 22 all game), but the moment mattered most. The veteran striker pounced on Nuno Mendes’ deflected cross to draw Portugal level at 2-2.
“Winning for Portugal is always special. I have many titles with clubs, but nothing is better than winning for Portugal.”
“ It’s tears. It’s duty done and a lot of joy,” Ronaldo said post-match, visibly emotional.
Nuno Mendes Silences Yamal, Wins Player of the Match
While Ronaldo delivered the headlines, it was Nuno Mendes who truly stole the show.
The 22-year-old Paris Saint-Germain left-back not only scored Portugal’s first equaliser, but completely shut down Spain’s 17-year-old phenom Lamine Yamal.
“I cancelled out Lamine and did not let him do what he does best. This helped the team and I’m happy I helped the team win this trophy,” Mendes told reporters after the game.
He added:
“It was a clash like many others I’ve had during the season. I’ve faced many technically skilled players.”
“It’s all about being consistent. I’m proud of what we’ve done.”
Mendes finished the game with:
1 goal
4 successful dribbles (3 more than any teammate)
7 duels won
Most tackles won (5)
Most passes into the final third (16)
Spain Fall Flat, Yamal Fades
Coming off a 5-4 extra-time win against France in the semi-finals, Spain looked poised for another title. But despite their dominance in recent years (Nations League 2023, Euro 2024), they couldn’t crack Portugal — or get past Mendes.
Yamal had four shots, mostly from distance, but was well contained.
Martinez Saves His Job?
This was Roberto Martinez’s first major international trophy — and possibly a job-saving one. With rumours swirling that the new Portuguese federation president prefers Jose Mourinho or Jorge Jesus, Martinez’s triumph may have bought him time.
Portugal’s Golden Generation?
Alongside Ronaldo, Portugal’s new wave — including Mendes, Joao Neves, Vitinha and Goncalo Ramos — have matured into a trophy-winning unit.
All four had won the Champions League with PSG at the same venue just eight days earlier, and now added the Nations League to their silverware.
The Legacy Grows
Cristiano Ronaldo: 138 international goals, 938 career goals, third trophy with Portugal
Roberto Martinez: First major silverware as an international manager
Nuno Mendes: Europe’s best left-back? A serious Ballon d’Or shout
Portugal: The team to fear heading into World Cup 2026
