Veteran Star Scores Crucial Equalizer Before Diogo Costa’s Heroics Seal Victory in Munich
Cristiano Ronaldo added another glorious chapter to his legendary international career, helping Portugal claim the UEFA Nations League title with a thrilling 5-3 penalty shootout victory over Spain in Munich on Sunday. The 39-year-old icon delivered when it mattered most, netting his record-extending 138th international goal to force extra time before watching from the bench as goalkeeper Diogo Costa became the shootout hero.
The match had all the drama befitting a final between Iberian rivals. Spain took the lead twice through Martín Zubimendi and Mikel Oyarzabal, only for Portugal to respond each time – first through Nuno Mendes’ crisp finish, then Ronaldo’s poacher’s equalizer in the 61st minute. The veteran striker, exhausted from his efforts, departed to a standing ovation in the 88th minute, leaving it to his teammates to complete the job.
“I’m so proud of this team,” Ronaldo said after hoisting the trophy. “We showed the heart of champions today. These young players give me energy to keep going.”
The shootout turned when Costa saved Álvaro Morata’s weak effort, leaving Ruben Neves to calmly slot home the decisive penalty. Morata was left devastated, collapsing to the turf in tears as Portugal celebrated their second Nations League triumph.
For PSG’s Mendes – named player of the match – and teammates Gonçalo Ramos, João Neves and Vitinha, it marked an incredible double after their Champions League triumph in the same stadium just eight days earlier.
Earlier in Stuttgart, Kylian Mbappé had warmed up for the final by leading France to a 2-0 win over Germany in the third-place playoff, scoring his 50th international goal in the process. But the night belonged to Ronaldo and Portugal, who proved that even in the twilight of his career, their captain remains the ultimate big-game player.
As “We Are The Champions” echoed around the Allianz Arena, one question lingered: How many more trophies can this ageless wonder inspire his nation to win?
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