Portugal beat Spain on penalties despite Ronaldo’s injury to win 2025 UEFA Nations League: Highlights and goals
Spain and Portugal delivered a thrilling battle at the 2025 UEFA Nations League final, ending 2–2 after extra time. The match showcased stellar performances, including key goals from Cristiano Ronaldo for Portugal. Ultimately, Portugal triumphed in the penalty shootout, claiming the title in a dramatic finish. Watch all the goals and highlights here.
In an unforgettable clash at the Allianz Arena, Spain and Portugal faced off in the 2025 UEFA Nations League finals, delivering a dramatic encounter filled with tension, talent, and moments of brilliance. The match ended 2–2 after extra time, with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring a vital equalizer for Portugal in what may have been his final appearance in a major international final.
Spain had earlier taken control through goals from Zubimendi and Oyarzabal, while Portugal responded with strikes from Ronaldo and Nuno Mendes to push the match to penalties.
Throughout the game, both teams exchanged dominant spells. Spain controlled much of the first half, showing composure and fluid play with strong contributions from Nico Williams, Pedri, Fabian Ruiz and Cucurella. Portugal, however, refused to back down and surged back in the second half with high pressing and physicality. Extra time saw chances from both sides—Semedo and Isco nearly tipped the balance—but neither team could find the winner in open play.
In the penalty shootout, Portugal held their nerve while Spain faltered. Gonçalo Ramos, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, Nuno Mendes, and finally Rúben Neves converted for Portugal, while Álvaro Morata’s miss proved decisive. As Neves buried the final spot kick, Portugal were crowned Nations League champions, and Cristiano Ronaldo, overcome with emotion, lifted the trophy in tears. It was a fittingly epic finale for a tournament that delivered everything fans could hope for.
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Portugal beat Spain in penalties 5-3 for the 2025 UEFA Nations League final and you lived every moment of this exciting game here, on Bolavip.
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Full time — What a match at the Allianz Arena!
This thrilling final had it all: a 2-2 draw after extra time, and penalties that proved decisive. Morata missed his spot kick, while Neves calmly converted the title-winning penalty. Cristiano Ronaldo finishes in tears as Portugal claims the crown. Absolute madness in Munich!
Portugal are champions! (5-3)
Rúben Neves delivers the decisive penalty, clinching the victory for Portugal and securing the 2025 UEFA Nations League title. Celebration erupts at the Allianz Arena as Portugal claims the crown!
Portugal scores, Spain misses! (4-3)
Nuno Mendes calmly converts his penalty to extend Portugal’s lead, but Morata’s shot for Spain is saved—Portugal pulls ahead in the shootout.
Isco nearly misses! (3-3)
Isco’s penalty comes dangerously close to being saved—Costa almost denies him, but the ball finds the net. The pressure is intense!
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Bruno Fernandes keeps Portugal steady! (3-2)
Bruno Fernandes calmly converts his penalty, giving Portugal the edge once again in the shootout.
Vitinha makes his mark! (2-1)
Vitinha scores a brilliant penalty, unstoppable for Unai Simón — Portugal takes a 2-1 lead in the shootout.
Spain holds on — Baena scores! (2-2)
Alejandro Baena calmly slots his penalty, keeping the shootout tied and the tension soaring.
Spain scores! (1-1)
Mikel Merino steps up and nails his penalty, leveling the shootout at 1-1.
First penalty scored for Portugal! (1-0)
Gonçalo Ramos calmly converts the opener — Portugal leads 1-0 in the shootout.
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Portugal steps up first in the shootout!
Gonçalo Ramos takes the first penalty for Portugal — the moment is set, and the pressure is on.
120' - We have penalties! (2-2)
After a goalless extra time, the UEFA Nations League final heads to a penalty shootout.
Brace yourselves for a nerve-wracking battle of nerves and luck — where every kick could decide history.
118' - Pace of the game slows down (2-2)
Fatigue starts to show for both teams as tired legs begin to weigh heavily at this late stage of the match.
The intensity dips as players conserve energy for what could be the decisive moments ahead.
114' - Spain maintains possession (2-2)
Spain controls the ball, trying to settle deep in Portugal’s half and craft dangerous chances, but nothing clear-cut yet.
Portugal remains dangerous on the break, ready to exploit any space with lethal counterattacks. The tension is palpable.
110' - Yellow card for Pedro Porro (2-2)
Pedro Porro is booked after committing a foul on Rafael Leão, who was breaking forward on a dangerous Portugal counterattack.
A crucial stop, but a costly caution for Spain in these tense final moments.
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111' - Change for Spain (2-2)
Mikel Oyarzabal, one of Spain’s goal scorers, comes off, making way for Alvaro Morata.
105' - Changes for both Spain and Portugal! (2-2)
Lamine Yamal comes off due to physical fatigue after a less sharp performance than usual, replaced by Yeremy Pino to inject energy into Spain’s attack.
On Portugal’s side, Pedro Neto makes way for Diogo Jota as they push hard for a late equalizer or winner.
The battle resumes at the Allianz Arena as Spain and Portugal push for the decisive goal in the closing moments of this epic UEFA Nations League Final. Every second counts now.
105' - End of the first half of extra time! (2-2)
The teams head into a brief break at the Allianz Arena still locked in a fierce battle. Spain and Portugal remain deadlocked, with tension and drama building for the decisive final 15 minutes ahead.
103' - Portugal comes close to scoring! (2-2)
Following a foul by Lamine Yamal on Rafael Leão, Bruno Fernandes delivers a dangerous free kick into the box. The ball weaves through a crowd of legs but is ultimately cleared by Spain’s defense.
A nail-biting moment for both sides as Portugal presses for the lead.
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99' - Tempers flare at the Allianz! (2-2)
Portugal erupts after a possible penalty shout for a foul on Nuno Mendes, leading to a brief shoving match between players.
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97' - Spain signals danger! (2-2)
A brilliant team move leads to a powerful shot from Cucurella, but it flies just over the crossbar.
A warning sign as Spain ramps up the pressure in extra time.
93' - Changes for Spain! (2-2)
Nico Williams and Óscar Mingueza make way as Alejandro Baena and Pedro Porro come on.
Fresh legs for Spain as they look to regain momentum and push for a late winner in extra time.
91' - Portugal nearly take the lead! (2-2)
A brilliant move orchestrated by Neves sets up Semedo inside the box, but his shot sails just wide.
90' Extra time underway! (2-2)
The final 30 minutes begin as Spain and Portugal battle for UEFA Nations League glory. Who will find the breakthrough?
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90' - Full time — we're heading to extra time at the Allianz Arena (2-2)
After 90 intense minutes, Spain and Portugal remain deadlocked at 2–2. An electrifying UEFA Nations League Final delivers drama, goals, and a relentless battle across the pitch.
With everything still to play for, we now head into extra time in Munich. One more chapter to write in this historic showdown.
90+1' - Yellow card for Le Normand after stopping Leao (2-2)
Robin Le Normand goes into the book after committing a tactical foul to halt a dangerous run from Rafael Leão, who had broken free down the left flank.
It's a smart but costly challenge, earning Le Normand a yellow card and handing Portugal a threatening free kick opportunity near the edge of the box.
The match ends with a final opportunity for Portugal as Bruno Fernandes whips in a corner, but Unai Simón reads it perfectly and makes a confident catch to seal the result.
87' - Cristiano Ronaldo subbed off with injury concern (2-2)
Gonçalo Ramos comes on in his place as Portugal look to finish strong. A tough moment for Portugal, losing their leader and goal scorer at such a critical stage.
83' - Isco nearly makes a dream return (2-2)
In his first touch back wearing Spain’s colors, Isco nearly announces his return in spectacular fashion. Picking up the ball at the edge of the box, he curls a shot toward the far post — only to be denied by a brilliant save from Diogo Costa.
A flash of brilliance from the veteran midfielder, showing he's still got the magic.
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82' - Portugal waste a corner (2-2)
After a brief delay due to a knock picked up by Diego Costa, Portugal finally take their corner — but it leads to nothing. Spain clear the danger, and the rebound falls to Lamine Yamal, who sparks a promising counterattack.
He charges up the pitch but is brought down by Pedro Neto, who takes a tactical foul and earns a yellow card. A missed chance for Portugal and a warning sign at the back.
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75' - Double substitutions for both sides as fresh legs enter the pitch (2-2)
Both managers make key adjustments heading into the final stretch:
For Portugal, Gonçalo Inacio and Bernardo Silva come off, with Renato Veiga and Rafael Leao entering the match — more pace and physicality added to the midfield and attack.
On the Spain side, Pedri and Fabián Ruiz are replaced by Isco and Mikel Merino, looking to regain control in midfield and bring more creativity in the final third.
70' - Spain waste a promising free kick opportunity (2-2)
Lamine Yamal earns a foul on the right flank and steps up to take the free kick himself. But the delivery falls flat — a misdirected cross that fails to find a teammate and drifts harmlessly away from danger.
66' - Portugal riding the wave after Ronaldo’s equalizer (2-2)
The momentum has completely shifted. After leveling the score, Portugal are feeding off the energy of the moment — pushing forward with urgency and intensity.
They’ve already created two more dangerous chances, applying relentless pressure on Spain’s back line. La Roja are on their heels as Portugal look to complete the comeback.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Nations League dominance continues
At 40 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo shows no signs of slowing down. With today’s goal, he now has 8 goals in 9 matches in the UEFA Nations League — the top scorer in the competition.
It’s a classic Ronaldo finish — powerful, precise, and in the biggest of moments. Portugal draw level at 2–2, and the final is wide open again.
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58' - Spain regain control after Portugal’s early second-half surge (1-2)
After withstanding a spell of intense pressure from Portugal, Spain have settled back into their rhythm. They've regained possession and are now dictating the pace of the match once again.
With more control in midfield, La Roja are looking to create danger through short passes and movement in the final third. A crucial stretch ahead as they look to manage the lead.
54' - Portugal pressuring hard in search of the equalizer (1-2)
Portugal are turning up the heat. They’ve pinned Spain back with high, aggressive pressing and are dominating possession deep in the opposition half.
La Roja are struggling to break out, while Portugal continue to search for that key pass or opening that could bring them level. The intensity is rising at the Allianz Arena.
48' Goal disallowed for Portugal! (1-2)
Portugal thought they were back in it after a stunning strike from Bruno Fernandes, but the goal is ruled out for offside in the buildup.
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45' - Second half underway! (1-2)
The action resumes in Munich! Spain hold a 2–1 lead, but Portugal are expected to turn up the intensity in this half as they chase a comeback.
Let’s see if La Roja can manage the game — or if Portugal have a response ready.
45' - Double change for Portugal (1-2)
Portugal make two adjustments to start the second half: João Neves and Francisco Conceição make way, with Nelson Semedo and Pedro Neves coming on.
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Spain chasing history in Munich
One key storyline in this final: Spain are the first men’s national team to reach the UEFA Nations League final three times — finishing as runners-up in 2020/21 and lifting the trophy in 2022/23.
Now, La Roja aim to become the first team to win the tournament twice. If they hold on tonight, it would be a landmark achievement in Nations League history.
45' Halftime! (1-2)
Spain head into the locker room with a deserved 2–1 lead after a strong first half, marked by smart buildup play and clinical finishing. Oyarzabal and Zubimendi provided the goals, while Pedri, Nico Williams and Fabian Ruiz orchestrated much of the attack.
Expect Portugal to come out swinging in the second half — they'll need to take more risks and look to exploit any space Spain leaves behind. It’s all to play for after the break.
That’s now 4 goals and 2 assists in the tournament for the Real Sociedad forward — a standout campaign from one of Spain’s most consistent performers.
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43' - Spain pushing high, but Portugal hold firm (1-1)
Spain are trying to pin Portugal deep, playing close to the opposition’s box and maintaining heavy possession in advanced areas.
Despite the pressure, they’ve yet to create real danger. Portugal’s back line is holding strong for now, staying compact and clearing out any loose balls. It’s a test of patience and precision for La Roja.
40'- Why is Marc Cucurella being whistled? (1-1)
Spotlight has shifted to Spanish left back Marc Cucurella, who is met with a wave of boos every time he touches the ball at the Allianz Arena. The hostile reception from German fans stems from a controversial moment during the 2024 UEFA Euro.
In a high-stakes match, a shot from Jamal Musiala clearly struck Cucurella’s hand inside the penalty area — but no penalty was given. The decision sparked outrage in Germany, and tonight, the crowd hasn't forgotten.
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Two yellow cards so far — Ruiz and Inácio booked
We’ve seen two yellow cards in this first half. Gonçalo Inácio was the first to go into the book early on, after a late challenge in midfield.
More recently, Fabián Ruiz also sees yellow for a tactical foul to break up a Portugal counterattack near the halfway line.
32' - Another wasted corner for Spain (1-1)
Spain win another corner, this time earned by Nico Williams. They go short again, with Pedri swinging in a cross, but the delivery lacks precision.
The ball bounces dangerously in the box for a moment, raising some alarms for Portugal, but no Spanish player is able to capitalize. The chance slips away.
25' GOOOAL FOR PORTUGAL! (1-1)
Portugal answer right back with a burst of energy. Nuno Mendes makes a sharp run into the inside channel of the box and unleashes a powerful shot on goal.
It’s a warning sign to Spain — Portugal aren’t backing down after conceding. Game on in Munich!
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21' GOOOAAAL FOR SPAIN! Zubimendi breaks the deadlock! (0-1)
Spain strike first in Munich! A brilliant collective move ends with Lamine Yamal sending in a dangerous cross. The initial delivery takes a deflection, falling perfectly for Martín Zubimendi, who calmly slots it home.
1–0 to Spain in the UEFA Nations League Final — and they’re in control!
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16' - Nico Williams fires just wide (0-0)
Spain are starting to take control, and Nico Williams nearly puts them ahead. The winger cuts inside from the left and lets fly with a right-footed shot that whistles just wide of the post.
La Roja look more comfortable with every minute — Portugal are on the back foot.
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13' - Yamal wastes free kick opportunity (0-0)
Spain earn a free kick after Lamine Yamal is fouled by Bruno Fernandes just outside the box. The 17-year-old steps up to take it himself, but the effort sails well over the bar and into the stands.
10' - Spain waste a corner opportunity (0-0)
Spain earn a corner thanks to Oyarzabal’s effort, but they try to get clever with a short play. Cucurella takes the initial touch, laying it off to Lamine Yamal, who whips in an outside-foot cross — but it fails to find a target.
7' - Watch out for Cucurella (0-0)
Spain are starting to show signs of life in attack, and Marc Cucurella is at the heart of it. Two consecutive plays down the left flank see the fullback pushing forward with purpose, both times set up brilliantly by Fabián Ruiz.
4' First warning from Portugal (0-0)
Portugal issue the first real threat of the match. A rare mistake from Lamine Yamal in midfield allows Cristiano Ronaldo to pounce and lead the break. The ball finds Pedro Neto, who rattles the post with a powerful strike.
The rebound leads to a corner, but Joao Neves sends the follow-up effort wide. A close call for Spain — and a reminder that Portugal are ready to capitalize on any slip.
0' Game Underway! (0-0)
The 2025 UEFA Nations League Final is officially underway! Portugal take the opening kick at the Allianz Arena as this long-awaited clash with Spain begins. Buckle up — the show is on!
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National anthems ring out!
Both squads are lined up on the pitch at the Allianz Arena as the national anthems echo through the stadium. The stage is set, the tension is rising, and we’re just moments away from the start of the 2025 UEFA Nations League final between Portugal and Spain.
Legends take the stage
Two icons of European soccer are front and center ahead of tonight’s final. Portugal’s legendary center back Pepe and Spain’s veteran fullback Jesus Navas step onto the pitch to present the UEFA Nations League trophy.
Spain’s national team locked in — and cheering for Alcaraz!
Before kicking off their own final, the Spanish national team took a moment to support one of their own in a different sport. A stunning photo captured the squad watching the Roland Garros final between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
Focused but united, La Roja show they're not just chasing a UEFA Nations League title — they’re backing Spanish excellence across the board.
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Tonight’s stage
Today’s match takes place at the Allianz Arena, a world-class soccer stadium located in Munich, Bavaria, Germany. It holds up to 70,000 fans for international fixtures and up to 75,000 for domestic matches.
Famous for its striking exterior made of inflated ETFE plastic panels, it’s the first stadium in the world with a fully color-changing façade — a modern icon of global soccer architecture.
The Allianz Arena is home to Bayern Munich and stands as one of the most legendary and historic venues in German soccer.
Here’s how it looks :
General view inside the stadium, as heavy rain falls prior to the UEFA Nations League 2025.
Spain are in the building — Eyes on history
Spain have also arrived at the Allianz Arena. Their top stars are on-site and ready to make history in today’s UEFA Nations League final. The energy is rising in Munich as both squads settle in — it’s almost time for one of the most anticipated matchups.
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Portugal have arrived — Ready for the final!
Portugal and their stars have officially checked in. The players are now at the Allianz Arena, fully focused and ready for today’s UEFA Nations League final clash against Spain.
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Portugal's lineup
Here's Portugal's lineup for the 2025 UEFA Nations League final against Spain!
Here's Spain's starting eleven for the 2025 UEFA Nations League final against Portugal
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Tonight’s referees
The man tasked with officiating today’s title-deciding clash is 37-year-old Swiss referee Sandro Schärer.
He is joined by fellow countrymen Jonas Erni (assistant referee 1) and Susanne Küng (assistant referee 2), while Dutch official Serdar Gözübüyük serves as the fourth referee.
In the VAR booth, Switzerland’s Fedayi San oversees video operations, with support from Dutch officials Dennis Higler (VAR assistant 1) and Pol van Boekel (VAR assistant 2).
Kick off time and how to watch
Spain vs Portugal will get underway at 3:00 PM ET (PT: 12:00 PM.)
Spain and Portugal clash in 2025 UEFA Nations League Finals
Welcome to our live blog of the UEFA Nations League finals!
Spain and Portugal are set to clash in the 2025 UEFA Nations League final — a match that promises high drama, unforgettable moments, and one of the most compelling generational battles in recent memory. All eyes will be on the electrifying 17-year-old Lamine Yamal and the iconic 40-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, as two eras collide on one of European soccer’s biggest stages.
Stay with us to get the necessary information and fun facts in the preview before we bring you minute-by-minute updates throughout the game!
Emilio Abad is a bilingual journalism student in his final year at Universidad de Especialidad Espíritu Santo. He joined the Bolavip US team in 2024, bringing with him a deep passion for international soccer and basketball. Emilio has gained valuable experience as a news anchor on a university program and completed an internship at Radio Forever in Guayaquil. He has also covered Liga Pro events in Ecuador, highlighting his expertise in sports reporting. His work in these roles has allowed him to develop a strong foundation in journalism.