"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
9 Jun 2025
The UEFA Nations League is a biennial international football competition featuring the men's national teams of UEFA member associations. The tournament was inaugurated in 2018-19, with Portugal winning the first title by defeating the Netherlands 1-0 in the final. This year's edition saw 55 teams competing in four leagues (A, B, C, and D), with the top four teams in League A qualifying for the Nations League Finals.
The Final: Portugal vs Spain
The 2025 UEFA Nations League Final was played on June 8, 2025, in Munich, Germany, between Portugal and Spain. The match ended 2-2 after extra time, with Portugal winning 5-3 in the penalty shootout. The match began with Spain taking the lead through Martin Zubimendi's goal in the 21st minute, followed by a hit back by Portuguese Nunu Mendes in the 26th minute. Spain pressed on, with Mikel Oyarzabal scoring a second goal in the 45th minute, leaving the Portuguese side under pressure. But after halftime, Portugal came back strong—legendary Cristiano Ronaldo netted an equalizer in the 61st minute, making it 2-2.
The second half was full of drama, with both teams getting chances to score but failing to find the net. Strong defence and excellent goalkeeping kept the score locked. After 120 minutes of play, the match went to a penalty shootout. Ronaldo, who had scored in the 61st minute, was substituted shortly after due to an injury.
Penalty Shootout Drama
The penalty shootout was intense, with both teams scoring their first three penalties. However, Portugal's goalkeeper Diogo Costa saved Álvaro Morata's penalty, allowing Rúben Neves to seal the victory with a composed finish. Portugal's shootout heroics were matched by their opponents' misses, ultimately leading to a 5-3 win in the shootout. After the match, Cristiano Ronaldo expressed his joy and gratitude, saying, "I have many titles with my clubs, but nothing is better than winning for Portugal." The 40-year-old legend became emotional, adding, "These are tears. It's mission accomplished and so much joy."
Portugal's Winning Formula
Under coach Roberto Martínez, Portugal has shown remarkable tactical versatility, often opting for a 4-3-3 formation. The team's attacking firepower, led by Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha, has been instrumental in their success. Fernandes' ability to control the tempo and provide drive in transitions has been crucial, while Vitinha's midfield mastery has allowed Portugal to dictate the game's pace. Followed by the mentorship and in-game presence of the legend and G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time) himself, Cristiano Ronaldo .
Key Players
- Bruno Fernandes: The Manchester United skipper has been instrumental in Portugal's success, providing drive and control in midfield.
- Vitinha: The midfield maestro has set the tone for Portugal, dictating the game's pace with his precise passing.
- Cristiano Ronaldo: The 40-year-old legend has played a pivotal role in Portugal's success, scoring crucial goals and inspiring his teammates.
-Diogo Costa: The Portuguese goalkeeper was the hero in the penalty shootout, saving Álvaro Morata's penalty to seal the win. His exceptional reflexes and shot-stopping ability have been crucial in Portugal's campaign.