CR7 beats Lamine Yamal: Ronaldo's Portuguese dethrone seemingly overwhelming Spaniards

Portugal ends Spain's winning streak and wins the Nations League. The underdogs trail twice in Munich, but advance to a penalty shootout thanks in part to Cristiano Ronaldo.

Cristiano Ronaldo narrowly won the eagerly awaited generational clash against super-talented Lamine Yamal, leading Portugal to a surprise victory in the Nations League. Roberto Martínez's team won the fast-paced and dramatic final in Munich 5-3 on penalties, claiming the title for the second time in the fourth edition, having previously won in 2019. The scores had been 2-2 (1-2) after 90 and 120 minutes.

Portugal, with 40-year-old goalscorer "CR7," thus underscored its ambitions for the 2026 World Cup; Ronaldo and Co. had already defeated hosts Germany in the semifinals. But dethroned defending champions and European champions Spain, with 17-year-old star Yamal, are also among the favorites for next year's tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Martin Zubimendi gave Spain, who had spectacularly beaten France 5-4 on Thursday, the lead in the 21st minute in front of 65,852 spectators. Yamal provided an elegant assist. Nuno Mendes immediately equalized (26th minute), before Mikel Oyarzabal made it 2-1 shortly before halftime (45th minute). Ronaldo scored to make it 2-2 (61st minute) in his 221st international appearance. It was his 138th goal. Rúben Neves fulfilled the dreams of more than just the Portuguese international with his decisive goal in the penalty shootout. Spain captain Alvaro Morata had previously missed.

The first duel between Yamal and Ronaldo was the center of attention. "He's a legend. I have great respect for him," said Yamal. Ronaldo had asked before the match to allow the highly talented player to develop in peace. "Don't put too much pressure on him," emphasized CR7.

Spain sets the tone for a long time

It was Ronaldo who created Portugal's first chance after winning the ball against Yamal. João Neves, one of three Champions League winners for Paris Saint-Germain alongside Nuno Mendes and Vitinha, narrowly missed the target (5').

The game initially developed into an open affair, with Yamal demonstrating his prodigious skill for the first time in the 12th minute, when he was only stopped by a foul after a solo run. However, he fired the resulting free kick from the edge of the penalty area well over the bar. It was much closer shortly after, when Pedri and Nico Williams missed from promising positions.

Spain dominated this phase, and they were rewarded. Yamal chipped the ball delicately into the penalty area. After some confusion, Zubimendi found himself completely unmarked and had no trouble. But Portugal only briefly shook themselves off and hit back immediately, with Nuno Mendes firing decisively, leaving Unai Simón no chance. A slugfest ensued – with Spain enjoying the better of the first half. Oyarzabal remained ice-cold from a free kick after a dream pass from Pedri.

After the break, neither team was able to gain an advantage. There was a lot of passing in midfield, but also a lot of inaccuracy and a lack of pace. As a result, chances were few and far between – until Ronaldo scored from the scrum. The game then picked up pace again. Ronaldo left the field injured shortly before the end of normal time. Yamal came off during the extra-time break.