Portugal’s Nations League Win Steals the Spotlight from Ronaldo and Yamal

A new generation rises, but the team tells the story at the epic UEFA Nations League final 2025.

The stage was set for a football fairytale: Cristiano Ronaldo, the 40-year-old legend chasing glory, squaring off against 17-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal in Munich. But instead of a headline written by the boots of either icon, it was a collective effort by Portugal that lifted the UEFA Nations League trophy, and turned the spotlight away from both star forwards.

A final not about individuals, but moments

Image Source: X

In a dramatic 2-2 draw that led to a penalty shootout, Portugal came out on top with a 5-3 win over Spain. The decisive moment came when goalkeeper Diogo Costa denied Alvaro Morata from the spot, clearing the way for Rúben Neves to seal it for the Seleção.

It wasn’t just a trophy; it was an emotional chapter for Ronaldo, who had to be subbed off late in the game due to a muscle strain. As the final whistle blew, he was seen in tears, overwhelmed, not just by the victory, but by the weight of another possible ‘last dance’ on the international stage.

Yamal, meanwhile, watched from the sidelines in his oversized coat. He had come to Munich as the next big thing — and make no mistake, he still is — but Sunday wasn’t his night. That didn’t stop him from offering quiet support to Morata and his teammates, showing a maturity well beyond his years.

Ronaldo scores, but Portugal proves it’s more than just CR7

Of course, Ronaldo still made his mark. His 138th international goal came from a volley after a crafty cross from Portugal’s rising star Nuno Mendes. That strike pulled Portugal level, but it was Mendes himself who truly shone. The PSG left back not only scored Portugal’s first but outpaced Yamal during a direct matchup and confidently buried his own penalty in the shootout.

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes and PSG’s Vitinha also made their presence known, with Vitinha particularly dazzling in midfield. His performance mirrored the form he showed just a week prior in PSG’s 5-0 demolition of Inter Milan.

Spain showed their depth too, but not quite enough

Spain had their heroes, too. New Real  Madrid signing Dean Huijsen and Robin Le Normand were solid at the back, while Unai Simón made a couple of key saves to keep Spain in it. But when it came down to the shootout, the difference was clinical finishing , and a keeper who guessed right.

This was the kind of game that reminded fans why tournament football isn’t always about the biggest names. Sometimes, it’s about the unsung hero’s who take their moment and run with it.

A glimpse into World Cup 2026?

Both squads now turn their attention to next year’s FIFA World Cup in North America. Portugal has depth, confidence and a true phenomenon in a 41-year-old Ronaldo who still scores against the world’s best. Spain, for their part, will pin their hopes on Yamal, who by then could be even more dangerous, having grown into the weight of his sky-high expectations.

The Nations League may be seen as a ‘mid-tier’ trophy by some, but for players and and true football fans alike, it still carries emotional and narrative weight. For Ronaldo, it’s another international title to his name. For Yamal, it’s a reminder that greatness doesn’t need to come all at once.

Source:ESPN Africa

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