Six years after clinching the inaugural Nations League title, the Portugal national football team has triumphed once again in UEFA’s youngest national team competition, making history as the first team to win it twice.

In the final held in Munich tonight, Portugal emerged victorious over Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout (5:3) after the match finished 2:2 at the end of regular and extra time, dethroning the reigning champions.

Portugal becomes the second team to secure the Nations League trophy via penalties, following Spain’s victory over Croatia two years ago. The Portuguese displayed excellent penalty-taking skills tonight, with Ramos, Vitinha, Fernandes, Mendes, and Neves—all successful in their attempts, accounting for a celebratory win.

In contrast, while Merino, Baena, and Isco scored for Spain, Morata’s missed attempt in the fourth series proved to be costly.

During regular time, Spain initially led on two occasions, with Portugal responding each time to level the score.

The “Furija” took the lead in the 21st minute, courtesy of a goal from Zubimendi following a mishap in the Portuguese defense, only for Mendes to level things up five minutes later with a well-placed shot.

Before the half-time whistle, Spain regained the lead when Oyarzabal scored in the 45th minute, but Cristiano Ronaldo brought Portugal back on level terms in the 61st minute, marking his 138th goal for the national team.

No further goals were scored in regulation or extra time, necessitating the penalty shootout that ultimately crowned Portugal champions once more.

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