Cristiano Ronaldo was once again the hero as Portugal defeated Spain 5-4 on penalties to win the UEFA Nations League final in Munich on Sunday night, securing the title for the second time in their history.
In a thrilling clash between the Iberian giants, it was defending champions Spain who struck first. Martin Zubimendi gave La Roja the lead in the 21st minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to slot past Diogo Costa.
However, Portugal responded quickly. Nuno Mendes found the back of the net just five minutes later with a powerful header from a Bruno Fernandes corner to level the tie at 1-1.
Spain regained the lead just before half-time through Mikel Oyarzabal, who curled in a fine finish in the 45th minute to make it 2-1 at the break.
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The second half saw Portugal ramp up the pressure, and it paid off in the 61st minute when Cristiano Ronaldo fired home a clinical equalizer to bring the score to 2-2, much to the delight of the Portuguese fans in the Allianz Arena.
With neither side able to find a winner in regular time or extra time, the match went to penalties.
Both teams converted their first four spot-kicks, but it was Spain captain Álvaro Morata who blinked first, sending his effort wide. Portugal converted their final kick to seal a 5-4 shootout victory.