A battle of generations: How Portugal triumphed over Spain in UEFA Nations League

It was chaos across Portugal at the strike of 10 on the night of June 8, as Portugal edged past Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout, securing their second title in the competition. The match ended in a 2-2 draw after extra time, with Portugal clinching victory 5-3 on penalties.

Portugal vs Spain is always considered a big deal, with citizens from both countries even ending in fights on the streets. The “Iberian derby” became more iconic as both teams faced each other for the first time in a UEFA final. From the opening whistle, both teams showed their intent. Spain struck first in the 21st minute when Martin Zubimendi broke the defence to net a well-placed cross from Lamine Yamal. But just five minutes later, Portugal responded with Nuno Mendes firing a volley across Unai Simón, levelling the score. With Mikel Oyarzabal’s second goal, Spain took the lead during halftime. And while the European champions looked poised to control the game, Portugal had other plans.

The Ronaldo factor

Cristiano Ronaldo, the ever-reliable talisman entered the scene in the 61st minute latching a deflected cross from Mendes scoring the equalizer for Portugal. The 40-year-old legend again proved why he remains one of football’s greatest icons. This goal marked his 138th goal for Portugal and 938th in his career, also leading to a world record as the highest-scoring player in men’s international football. Though he was substituted before extra time, his impact was undeniable for Portugal.

At 40, Ronaldo continues to defy expectations. His ability to perform at the highest level, even in the twilight of his career, is a testament to his dedication and skill. This Nations League victory adds another feather to his legendary cap alongside his UEFA Euro’16 and Portugal’s first Nations League title in 2019.

With the score locked at 2-2 after 120 minutes, the match was decided from the penalty spot. Diogo Costa and Rúben Neves became the heroes when the former blocked Álvaro Morata’s goal, leading to the latter sealing the victory for Portugal with his final goal.

The defeat was a bitter pill to swallow for Spain. They dominated possession (60 per cent versus Portugal's 40 per cent), but they had trouble turning their dominance into game-changing opportunities and missed many chances, including Yamal’s direct freekick. Their hopes of becoming the first team to win two straight Nations League titles were thrown under the wheel and also leaving them to regroup ahead of the World Cup in 2026.

On the other hand, 10th of June seems a grand celebration for the Portuguese as well for Lisbonites, as it is Dia do Portugal (Day of Portugal) and as the Seleçãos parade around the city with the trophy. The whole city, already in the mood for celebrations, is getting a double treat.

The veteran and prodigy

“If this match were a scene from Cars 3 movie, Yamal would be Jackson Storm, the up-and-coming sensation with the world at his feet, and Cristiano Ronaldo would be Lightning McQueen, the seasoned champion demonstrating that he still belongs at the top” commented Joao Diogo, a junior team football coach and Ronaldo fan from Lisbon.

Even at 40, Ronaldo is still redefining what it means to be a football player. He is an iconic figure whose dominance has shaped an era, much like McQueen. He refuses to fade away, despite the fact that critics have frequently conjectured about his decline. His final goal was a statement rather than merely another addition to his world record. It demonstrated that leadership, experience, and an unrivalled work ethics can still defeat youth.

Yamal, on the other side, is rising as the next big thing in Spain and Barca. He has proven himself as a great player even though he is only 17. His speed, style, and vision are similar to Storm's, the innovative athlete created for a new age. Even though he didn't score, his presence was felt throughout the evening as his brilliant runs caused problems for Portugal's defense. Yamal has demonstrated a great deal of respect for football's greats, including Ronaldo, in contrast to Storm, who wrote McQueen off as being out of date. After the match, he spoke of his admiration for Portugal’s captain, acknowledging the legacy he continues to build.

In response to a question concerning Lamine Yamal as a rival, Ronaldo said in a post-match interview, "I am always compared to the new kids in the block, which is great, but I am still here."

Portugal’s coach, Roberto Martínez too praised his team’s resilience, emphasising the depth and quality of the squad. “We don’t just have a team; we have 16-17 players on the same level, and, as a coach, I have many options and can change concepts,” Martínez said after the match.

With the World Cup just a year away, both teams are expected to build on this experience. Portugal, buoyed by their Nations League success, will aim to carry their momentum into the global stage. Spain, meanwhile, will seek to refine their strategy and bounce back stronger. And as always, the question remains – will Cristiano Ronaldo play and captain Portugal one last time to get his first world cup, to which even Ronaldo commented “I will be looking forward to it”.