Video: Nuno Mendes scores equalizer for Portugal against Spain in the UEFA Nations League final

Portugal and Spain faced off at the Allianz Arena to decide who would lift the trophy in the 2025 UEFA Nations League final. In a tightly contested match, midfielder Martin Zubimendi broke the deadlock with the game’s opening goal to put Spain in front, but Nuno Mendes quickly found the equalizer.

In the 21st minute, Lamine Yamal sent a dangerous cross into the box. Portugal’s Rúben Dias failed to clear it, leaving the ball loose inside the area. Zubimendi, perfectly positioned, pounced on the rebound and calmly slotted it home to give La Roja the early lead.

In the 26th minute, following a sharp buildup involving Cristiano Ronaldo, Pedro Neto laid the ball off to Nuno Mendes, who surged forward from his left back position like a striker. Mendes drove into the box and fired a thunderous shot to bring Portugal level.

The goal sparked some controversy over Ronaldo’s positioning earlier in the play, but after a VAR review, referee Sandro Schärer allowed it to stand—prompting another wave of celebration from Portugal.

Just before halftime, a costly turnover in midfield exposed Portugal’s disorganized shape. Pedri capitalized, driving forward before threading a pinpoint pass to Oyarzabal, who raced into space and slotted home to restore Spain’s 2–1 lead.