Faith Nyasuguta
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has secured yet another landmark triumph, adding a third major international trophy to his illustrious career by guiding his side to victory in the 2025 UEFA Nations League. The thrilling final took place at Munich’s Allianz Arena on June 8, 2025, with Portugal overcoming Spain via a dramatic 5-3 penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw following extra time .
Throughout regulation time, Spain initially took the lead through Martin Zubimendi and later Mikel Oyarzabal, but Portugal fought back on both occasions. Nuno Mendes netted the first equalizer before halftime, and Ronaldo struck a sensational volley early in the second half to make it 2-2 and force the contest into extra time . That volley also marked his 138th international goal, underlining his enduring influence for Portugal .
Although Ronaldo left the field late in extra time due to a tightness and did not take part in the penalty kicks, his goal proved pivotal. In the shootout, Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa made a crucial save against Alvaro Morata. Midfielder Ruben Neves ultimately sealed the win with the decisive penalty, ensuring Portugal’s clean sweep of five spot-kicks .
The emotional scenes that followed were unforgettable. Ronaldo, 40, collapsed to his knees in tears as he celebrated alongside his teammates. Reflecting on the win, he said there are few things more special than lifting silverware in a national jersey, praising this generation of Portuguese players and acknowledging the proud presence of his family in the stands .
This victory not only crowns Portugal as the first nation to win the Nations League twice, having previously won in 2019, but also adds to Ronaldo’s opening title from Euro 2016, bringing his international trophy haul to three major titles. At 40, Ronaldo continues to defy age, setting records as the oldest player and oldest scorer in a Nations League final .
In the semifinals held just days earlier on June 4, Ronaldo also showcased his leadership by scoring the late winner to knock out Germany 2-1, Portugal’s first win over Germany in 25 years and a key moment en route to the final .
Looking ahead, though Ronaldo has hinted that the Club World Cup in the United States in mid-June is not on his agenda, his international journey is still evolving. Nonetheless, this latest achievement marks another high point and could serve as fitting preparation for what might be his final World Cup squad in Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. in 2026 .
Cristiano Ronaldo’s latest feat showcases both his personal brilliance and Portugal’s team strength. Through grit, decisive goals, and raw emotion, CR7 has solidified his status among Portugal’s football greats, and the scene in Munich will be etched in history as another milestone in his incredible legacy.
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