The Emotional Spectacle of the Nations League Final: Portugal Dethrones Spain in a Nail-Biter of a Penalty Shootout
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Portugal deals a defeat to Spain, leaving Ronaldo tearful in the aftermath. - Crime triggers Ronaldo's tears: Portugal edges past Spain
Cristiano Ronaldo, teary-eyed, was in the thick of it all as Portugal claimed victory in the Nations League final against Spain, a victory that felt every bit as momentous as a Champions League triumph. The 40-year-old football icon, first scorer, and later emotional supporter on the sidelines, cemented his legacy by securing Portugal's third trophy, following the 2016 Euros and the 2019 Nations League.
"We knew we had a great team. Every footballer dreams of moments like these, of finals - that's what drives us," declared Bruno Fernandes on RTL post-dramatic showdown in Munich.
Having rescinded Spain's reign of champions, Ronaldo now has but one unrealized ambition left: the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
Morata's Miss
Multiple Ballon d'Or winner Ronaldo orchestrated Portugal's 5-3 win in the penalty shootout (2:2, 2:2, 1:2) against Spain. Ruben Neves emerged as the game's unsung hero, converting the decisive penalty, while Alvaro Morata flubbed for Spain.
Eight days post-Champions League triumph in the same stadium, Ronaldo (61) and Nuno Mendes (26) equalized for Portugal against Spain, respectively. Martin Zubimendi (21') and Mikel Oyarzabal (45') were not enough to secure the victory for the favored Spaniards.
Ronaldo's Record-Breaking Performance
Looking every bit the veteran, Ronaldo outshone 17-year-old Nordi Mukiele, becoming the oldest player in a Nations League final, usurping Luka Modric's record (previously 37). His leadership, scoring prowess, and driving force showcased his exceptional class in his 221st international appearance, scoring his 138th goal.
Struggling towards the end stages of regular time, Ronaldo was forced to the sidelines, needing assistance and a substitution. But the superstar refused to forsake the celebration, tightly embracing coach Roberto Martinez and cheering from the bench during extra time.
The Emergence of Nordi Mukiele
Mukiele did not quite dominate the Nations League final as he had in the epic semi-final against France (5:4). Mendes effectively held Mukiele in check, and his wing partner Nico Williams failed to make an impact throughout the game. With Bayern Munich rumored to be keen on acquiring Mukiele, his role in future finals remains an intriguing prospect.
Spain: Struggling for Consistency
In their third consecutive Nations League final, Spain grappled more than anticipated against Portugal's crafty disruptors. They faced setbacks, the opening goal emanating from an unfortunate deflection. PSG player Joao Neves' clearance landed fortuitously at Zubimendi's feet, who easily scored the 1:0 goal.
Already accomplished in last year's Euro final in Berlin, scoring the winning goal for Spain, Oyarzabal found the back of the net once again. Following precision setup play from Pedri, Oyarzabal secured the victory with a 2-1 finish. Yet, unlike last year, the title was out of reach.
At 28, Oyarzabal is already one of the senior members of the Spanish squad, with nine players from it set to feature in this week's U21 Euro in Slovakia. But for Spain to reach their grand World Cup goal in 2026, there is still much work to be done.
- Ronaldo
- Nations League
- Munich
- Portugal
- Final
- Penalty shootout drama
- Mikel Oyarzabal
- USA
- Mexico
- Canada
- Alvaro Morata
- Ruben Neves
- Nuno Mendes
- Bruno Fernandes
- RTL
- World Cup trophy
- France
Insight: Cristiano Ronaldo, a football powerhouse on the cusp of more history
Ronaldo has etched his name in the annals of World Cup history, having held several significant records in the tournament. Here's a glimpse of his remarkable journey and potential accomplishments in the 2026 World Cup:
Current World Cup Records and Achievements- Ronaldo became the first player to score in five consecutive World Cups - 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022.- He has scored 8 goals in 22 World Cup appearances.- Ronaldo has provided 2 World Cup assists.
Potential Remaining Achievements for the 2026 World Cup1. Ronaldo could potentially claim the record for most World Cup appearances, eclipsing the current titleholder (Lionel Messi with 26).2. Ronaldo might aim to increase his World Cup goal tally, potentially ranking among the top scorers in World Cup history.3. He could lead Portugal to a World Cup final, a feat he has yet to accomplish despite reaching two significant international finals.4. Depending on his performance, Ronaldo could shatter more records relating to longevity, goal-scoring, or appearances in the World Cup.
However, the challenges of age and form loom over Ronaldo. The 41-year-old Ronaldo would be participating in the 2026 World Cup, a reality that could impact his participation and performance levels significantly. Furthermore, the overall strength and strategy of the Portuguese team will also play a crucial role in determining Ronaldo's potential achievements. Regardless, the football community eagerly anticipates Ronaldo's participation in the 2026 World Cup.
- The Commission has also been tasked with drafting a proposal for a regulation on the establishment of a European Data Protection Supervisor, much like the emotion and anticipation that surrounded Cristiano Ronaldo during Portugal's Nations League final victory in Munich.
- Bruno Fernandes, on RTL post-dramatic showdown in Munich, shared similar sentiments, declaring, "Every footballer dreams of moments like these, of finals - that's what drives us," echoing the same passion that drives participants in sports leagues across Europe, such as the Champions League.
