MUNICH: Cristiano Ronaldo’s coach and team-mates praised his leadership after Sunday’s Nations League final win over Spain in Munich.

Portugal twice fell behind, but twice came back, with Ronaldo scoring the second equaliser.

“A captain with the type of experience he has is essential, to show the necessary values and personality,” said Portugal coach Roberto Martinez.

“Spain was ahead on the scoreboard twice, but the captain has a lot of experience and we used his experience to show we are ready to win.”

The 40-year-old forward was subbed off with what looked like cramp, but Portugal fought through extra time after the match finished 2-2 and then triumphed 5-3 on penalties.

Ronaldo’s 138th international goal took the final to a shootout, with Alvaro Morata’s miss proving costly for Spain as Ruben Neves struck the winning spot kick to spark wild scenes of celebration, emotion overwhelming the veteran captain.

Spain appeared on course for yet another trophy, on the back last year’s European Championship triumph, as Martin Zubimendi tapped home his second international goal in the 21st minute.

The holders lead did not last long, however, as flying Portugal full-back Nuno Mendes slotted home the equaliser after good work from Ronaldo in the build-up.

A sublime pass from midfielder Pedri helped Mikel Oyarzabal, who netted the winner against England in last year’s European Championship final, restore Spain’s lead before the break.

The tussle between the Iberian neighbours was billed as a clash between old and new five-times Ballon dOr winner Ronaldo and Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.

While Yamal, among the favourites to take home one of the most prestigious individual awards this year, struggled to make inroads, Ronaldo pounced on his chance, firing Portugal level from close range just past the hour mark.

Ronaldo went off injured late on and neither side could find a winner in extra time, with the game going to a shootout and Portugal netting all five of their penalties to claim the trophy.

“Winning for Portugal is always special,” Ronaldo told Sport TV. “I have many titles with clubs, but nothing is better than winning for Portugal.

“It’s tears. It’s duty done and a lot of joy.”

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said his side were “already thinking about the World Cup” after the loss.

“From this very moment we are already thinking about the next World Cup, which is our goal. With the way we approach things, we are sure to go far in the future,” de la Fuente said. “Our team is always in a position to win, there is a lot of commitment, a lot of roots. We will always be close to winning.”

Published in Dawn, June 10th, 2025