On Sunday night Portugal emerged victorious over Spain. In a tense penalty shootout, they won the UEFA Nations League final 5-3 on penalties to claim victory. The triumph was Cristiano Ronaldo’s 34th trophy of an incredible career and his second Nations League title. At the age of 40, Ronaldo showcased his enduring talent on the international stage, playing a pivotal role in his team’s success.
The match was played at the Estádio Municipal de Braga in Portugal. What an incredible display of skill and determination from both teams. Ronaldo had brought Portugal level in the final, pulling his side back into contention from behind. His impact was even greater, as he helped provide the leadership and experience so often lacking—which has marked his career. As the game wore on, Wendy ran out of gas, forcing his substitution late in regulation.
In what would prove to be a match of generations, Ronaldo had a duel with Spain’s phenom, Lamine Yamal. The juxtaposition between the veteran forward and the new wave of talent only further emphasized the transition that is currently taking place in football. Though he was clearly dead on his feet, Ronaldo was the key man as the match went to penalties.
So when the tension boiled over during the penalty shootout, Ronaldo had a rare show of vulnerability. He covered his eyes and rested on the shoulders of his teammates when it came time to take those winning kicks. He fell to his knees weeping, and his heart poured forth. That is what made Portugal’s victory so beautiful. It seized the spirit of football’s most sentimental stories.
The penalty shootout was incredible drama, with both teams showing nerves and poise under pressure equally. Álvaro Morata’s miss proved critical for Spain. The 29-year-old striker stepped up for Spain’s fourth penalty but was denied by Diogo Costa. That save proved to be critical, as the momentum quickly swung toward advancing Portugal. This paved the way for Rúben Neves to take responsibility and score the decisive penalty.
The match featured several notable performances. Mikel Oyarzabal and Martín Zubimendi converted their penalties for Spain. Portugal’s Nuno Mendes quickly added a second but Neves’ late goal ensured the victory. In the end, it was Portugal’s coolness in the face of adversity that made all the difference.
Add yet another Ronaldo accomplishment to an already long list of accolades. That’s a pretty drastic switch. This includes four medals from the Olympics, if we count the 2020 Summer Games. Yet as long as he continues to play at an extremely high level, he cements his legacy as one of football’s greatest players.