As many fans expected, the 2025 UEFA Nations League final delivered plenty of goals. In the first half, Spain struck first. Martin Zubimendi opened the scoring, and Mikel Oyarzabal followed with a second. Portugal stayed in it thanks to a brilliant effort from Nuno Mendes. Still, many doubted the Portuguese team. That changed when Cristiano Ronaldo stepped up and scored the equalizer to shift the momentum.
In the 61st minute, Nuno Mendes launched a counterattack down the left flank. He broke past the Spanish defense with speed and control. Then, he whipped in a low cross. Robin Le Normand and Dean Huijsen failed to clear it, leaving the ball loose in the box. Ronaldo reacted instantly. He drove the ball into the net and gave Portugal hope to conquer their second Nations League title.
With that goal, Spain‘s dominance started to fade. The drop in control of the game led to the substitutions of Fabian Ruiz and Pedri. Mikel Merino and Isco came on to restore balance in midfield. The idea was to regain possession and restart the attacks. Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal had been forced to drop deep for the ball. As a result, Spain lost key attacking chances in the final third.
However, not all the blame fell on Spain. Roberto Martinez’s Portugal played with precision and purpose. Vitinha controlled the tempo with authority in midfield. Meanwhile, Nuno Mendes continued his stellar form as one of Europe’s top full-backs. He directly or indirectly contributed to both goals. In addition, he constantly challenged the Spanish defense with his pace and positioning.
Cristiano Ronaldo made a major impact before leaving injured in the 88th minute. He read the game with intelligence and moved brilliantly up top. His presence stretched the Spanish defense and created space. As a result, Pedro Neto and Francisco Conceicao found room to shine and punished Spain with their speed and skill.
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Despite no longer competing at the top tier of European soccer, Cristiano Ronaldo remains a key figure in Roberto Martinez’s squad at 40. Throughout the tournament, he scored seven goals. That total tied him with Erling Haaland and Georges Mikautadze, who are both 16 years younger. This performance shows Ronaldo still competes at the highest level.
Meanwhile, Portugal’s current generation ranks among the most promising in world soccer. In that context, Ronaldo has re-emerged as its clear leader. His role has shifted into that of a world-class striker. Yet, he continues to deliver consistently. Portugal still rely on him, since Goncalo Ramos and Diogo Jota have not proven to be reliable replacements. That fact highlights his remarkable form and enduring influence.
