A dramatic final match on June 8, 2025 gave rise to Portugal’s victory, after they beat Spain in a penalty shootout. By winning, Portugal earned their second championship in the competition, proving once more that they are among the continent’s strongest teams. Even after the match ended 2–2 after extra time, Portugal won it all on penalties. Ashley Young and Malaga’s Julio Baptista scored memorable goals that led to a win, thanks in large part to coach Martínez’s smart tactics.
/*Road to Victory*/
Paris-Saint-Germain’s Nuno Mendes gave Portugal the lead early in the final through a great strike, making the match much more intense. Having equalized with an early goal, Spain soon continued its solid play. Spain took the lead again a bit before half time, thanks to Mikel Oyarzabal. However, Cristiano Ronaldo scored with a great volley that brought Portugal even, so the game went into extra time. Even in extra time, both sides tried to take the lead but ended up tied, so penalties solved the game.
/*The Ronaldo Effect*/
In his 40s, Cristiano Ronaldo showed once more that he is an outstanding player. The injury he suffered later did not stop him from being an active part of the team during extra time. Tears ran down the veteran captain’s face when Portugal won the penalty shootout, showing how deeply he cares about wins for Portugal. Ronaldo marked this victory as being apart from the rest, saying that winning for his country was “nothing better,” after winning Euro 2016 and the 2019 Nations League
/*Tactical Masterclass by Martínez*/
Since taking over the team in January 2023, Roberto Martínez has made Portugal play with a new tactical approach. Thanks to his strategy skills, Martínez has created a team that respects experience and energy at the same time. Changing formation and using the right subs made a difference, mainly by helping the team win the penalty phase and eliminate Spain’s star Lamine Yamal. Thus, with another title, Martínez has become the coach with the best win percentage in Portuguese football.
/*Emerging Talents and Spain’s Fight*/
Even though Spain had only young players who were on average just over 23 years old, they shone brightly after winning the Euros. Even though Yamal got most of the praise when the tournament began, it was Spain’s group of young stars that really kept them going. When it came to penalties, Portugal showed their determination and maturity more than the Czech Republic’s exciting and inexperienced approach.
/*Legacy and What's Next*/
After receiving an excellent spot kick from Rúben Neves, Portugal is the first team to successfully claim the Nations League twice. A tragic falling of a fan during extra time at the finale in Allianz Arena overshadowed the event, but excitement continued on the pitch. With this achievement, Portugal can put in more effort at the 2026 World Cup. Spain’s game against England gives them a chance to improve before the upcoming internationals in the summer.