AFCON 2025
In a gripping 2025 UEFA Nations League final, Portugal beat Spain 5-3 in a penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw following extra time, reclaiming the title from the inaugural edition. The clash of past champions delivered intense action from the outset.
Portugal, under manager Roberto Martinez, started strong, with João Neves missing a close-range volley early on.
Spain countered, but Pedri’s shot narrowly missed. Spain took the lead when Martin Zubimendi poked home Lamine Yamal’s half-cleared delivery, only for Nuno Mendes to equalize with a fierce strike.
The game turned frantic, and Spain regained the lead before halftime as Mikel Oyarzabal flicked in Pedri’s pass.
Portugal’s Bruno Fernandes had a goal disallowed for offside, but Cristiano Ronaldo leveled with a tap-in from Mendes’ cross. Diogo Costa’s late save forced extra time, where no winner emerged.
In the shootout, Alvaro Morata’s miss at 4-3 handed Portugal the advantage, and Ruben Neves sealed the win. Portugal becomes the first nation to win twice, with Ronaldo possibly signing off in style.
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