Picture Credit: X
Late on Sunday night, Portugal secured a comfortable win over Spain to lift the UEFA Nations League in Munich. After drawing the game against Spain 2-2 at the Allianz Arena in Munich, the Cristiano Ronaldo led side sealed the title by defeating Spain 5-3 on penalties.
The match began with intense attacking from both corners. Joao Neves came close for Portugal in the opening minutes, while Spain’s Pedri and Nico Williams also charged in the early minutes of the game. The Spanish side however took the lead in 21st minute with a goal through Martin Zubimendi, Portugal equalised five minutes later when Nuno Mendis beat Oscar Mingueza to score his first international goal.
The Spanish side then regained the advantage just minutes before halftime through a goal from Mikel Oyarzabal to make it 2-1, Portugal too improved after the break as Ronaldo went to level the scoreline 2-2, volleying in Mendis’ deflected cross to get his 938th career goal.
Portugal win 5-3 on penalties; lift their second UEFA Nations League title
Although, Ronaldo was forced to make an exit due to injury, the side continued to press in extra time and eventually took the match into penalty shootout. However, both sides saw themselves convert in their respective first three attempts, Portugal goalkeeper, Diogo Costa’s save of Alvaro Morata came as a breakthrough moment.
Ruben Neves then converted the decisive penalty, securing a win for the Selecao das Quinas. The win was Portugal’s only second competitive win over Spain in their long history after their first came in Euro 2004. Moreover, with a 5-3 win on penalties, Portugal became the first two-time winner of the UEFA Nations League and also their third major title along the Euro 2016.
