Nuno Mendes will not be part of the match for PSG as the defending champions host Barcelona in one of the biggest games of the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/champions-league/">Champions League</a> league phase, and the reason is a muscle injury that came at the worst possible time for Luis Enrique.



The Portuguese left back suffered a left thigh injury in the 3-1 win at Strasbourg in Ligue 1 on Oct. 17, and medical tests the next day confirmed a muscle problem. PSG said in a statement that <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/nuno-mendes/">Mendes</a> will be unavailable for the next few weeks, without giving a specific return date.



The injury came late in the game against Strasbourg, when Luis Enrique had already used all of his substitutions, so <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/psg/">PSG</a> had to finish the match with ten men. With Mendes out, Lucas Hernandez gets the start at left back in Paris, as PSG also deal with the absences of Senny Mayulu and Alessandro Longoni.



The loss is a blow for Luis Enrique as his team faces a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/barcelona/">Barcelona</a> side that arrives with a perfect record. PSG have won both of their matches in the league phase, beating Slovan Bratislava 6-1 and winning 4-2 at Manchester City, while Barcelona have beaten Feyenoord 5-1 and Galatasaray 4-1, setting up one of the most anticipated matches of the league phase.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-x wp-block-embed-x"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Medical Point Regarding Nuno Mendes<a href="https://x.com/Aspetar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Aspetar</a> 👉 <a href="https://t.co/LuhhkABRAk">https://t.co/LuhhkABRAk</a> <a href="https://t.co/cwzMbMhJZU">pic.twitter.com/cwzMbMhJZU</a>— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) <a href="https://x.com/PSG_English/status/2111904037851259038?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h2>Barcelona also arrive with injury concerns</h2>



PSG are not the only side dealing with absences in defense. Barcelona travel to Paris without Jules Kounde and Eric Garcia, who did not make the trip after picking up physical problems in the 5-2 win over Real Betis.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/news/is-raphinha-playing-today-projected-lineups-for-psg-vs-barcelona-in-2026-27-uefa-champions-league-matchday-3/"></div>


Garcia has a muscle injury in the right thigh and is expected to be out for three to four weeks, while Kounde suffered a sprained left ankle, and his recovery will also determine whether he is available for El Clasico against Real Madrid on Oct. 25.



Andreas Christensen is also out with a muscle injury in his left quadriceps and is not expected back until mid-November, while Roony Bardghji continues his recovery from a torn ACL in his right knee and is not expected to return until the final stretch of the season. The injuries leave Hansi Flick short of center backs, which makes Pau Cubarsi and Xavi Espart key pieces for the clash in Paris.

Why is Nuno Mendes not playing for PSG vs Barcelona in 2026-27 UEFA Champions League?

Why is Nuno Mendes not playing for PSG vs Barcelona in 2026-27 UEFA Champions League? - World Soccer Talk

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<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> and Nuno Mendes, two of Portugal‘s most pivotal players, had their minutes carefully managed in the final friendly against Nigeria. After the match, head coach Roberto Martinez explained the workload plans in place for both players as the Selecao make their final preparations heading into the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/world-cup/">2026 World Cup</a>.



<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/portugal-vs-nigeria-live-updates-minute-by-minute-coverage-of-2026-international-friendly/">Portugal defeated Nigeria 2-1 in their last pre-tournament friendly</a>, with Ronaldo substituted off in the 65th minute in favor of Goncalo Ramos. The more concerning moment, however, involved Nuno Mendes, who entered at halftime before being replaced in the 80th minute, immediately raising alarm bells about a potential injury.



At his post-match press conference, Martinez moved quickly to clarify the situation: “The plan we had for Cristiano, based on the information we have, was for him to play 45 or 60 minutes. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/nuno-mendes/">Nuno Mendes</a> also had an individual plan for 30 minutes, Gonxalo Ramos as well, and Vitinha and Joao Neves for 45.“



Beyond the individual load management, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/roberto-martinez/">Martinez</a> highlighted the broader objective behind the approach. “The important thing is to work on the individual aspect, but to have a team that manages to finish the match stronger than it started. And that shows a job well done, focus, and clarity in executing the concepts. We are much better prepared.“



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/06/10224314/cristiano-ronaldo-portugal-nigeria-1920x1080.webp" alt="Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal (R) tries to escape Alex Iwobi of Nigeria (L)." class="wp-image-651871"><figcaption>Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal (R) tries to escape Alex Iwobi of Nigeria (L).</figcaption></figure>



With goalkeeper Diogo Costa the only player to complete the full 90 minutes, Martinez rotated every outfield player against Nigeria. Ronaldo logged the most minutes among the outfield starters, while Mendes was given a tightly controlled stint given the physical toll of the UEFA Champions League final, with Vitinha and João Neves afforded just slightly more time on the pitch.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/world-cup/cristiano-ronaldo-deserves-to-win-this-kind-of-trophy-france-1998-champion-david-trezeguet-backs-portugals-world-cup-chances/"></div>


Martinez also took a moment to reflect on what the occasion meant beyond the tactical preparation. ‘It was fantastic to be with our fans; this last match had a special energy. I think we are prepared in every aspect to carry the pride and the dreams of our Portuguese people,” he added.



<h2>Will Cristiano Ronaldo play against DR Congo?</h2>



There is every expectation that Ronaldo will be in the starting lineup for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/portugal/">Portugal</a>‘s World Cup opener against DR Congo. The forward is in good physical condition, and his substitution against Nigeria was purely a matter of planned workload management rather than any fitness concern.



After the game, Martinez acknowledged that he has not yet locked in his starting eleven for the June 17 clash against DR Congo, noting that “the eleven is a consequence of the work up until the last day.” At the same time, he made clear that confidence within the squad is high. “After the friendlies, we are better prepared to face DR Congo, Uzbekistan, and Colombia,” the coach said.

Portugal boss Martinez explains Cristiano Ronaldo and Nuno Mendes workload management ahead of World Cup

Portugal boss Martinez explains Cristiano Ronaldo and Nuno Mendes workload management ahead of World Cup - World Soccer Talk

<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/psg-vs-bayern-munich-live-updates-minute-by-minute-coverage-of-the-2025-26-champions-league-semifinals-first-leg/">Paris Saint-Germain secured a 5-4 win over Bayern Munich</a> on Tuesday, a result that moves them closer to the UEFA Champions League final. Nuno Mendes featured for the French side, and his appearance allowed him to reach a historic milestone for Portuguese players, overtaking Cristiano Ronaldo.



After being named in the starting lineup and playing 84 minutes before being replaced by Lucas Hernandez, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/nuno-mendes/">Mendes</a> became the youngest Portuguese player to reach 50 Champions League appearances.



The Portuguese left-back hit that mark at 23 years and 313 days, comfortably surpassing <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/">Ronaldo</a>. The forward had reached that total during the 2008-09 season, when he was still playing for Manchester United, at 24 years and 83 days, and held the record for more than 17 years.



Mendes’ numbers come exclusively from his time with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/psg/">Paris Saint-Germain</a>. Before joining the French side, he spent three seasons with Sporting CP, where he did not make a Champions League appearance. Since 2021, however, the defender has become a key player for PSG, something reflected in his seven goals and four assists in 50 matches in European competition.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/04/22141537/cristiano-ronaldo-real-madrid-champions-league-trophy-1920x1080.webp" alt="Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid lifts the UEFA Champions League trophy." class="wp-image-637870"><figcaption>Cristiano Ronaldo won five Champions League titles.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Portuguese players with the most Champions League appearances</h2>



What makes Nuno Mendes’ achievement even more impressive is how it compares to other Portuguese stars from recent decades. At under 24, the PSG left-back is already approaching numbers that other icons took years to build.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/news/cristiano-ronaldos-legacy-of-consistency-meets-harry-kanes-rare-uefa-champions-league-record-after-bayerns-nail-biting-battle-with-psg/"></div>


At the moment, Mendes is just 14 matches away from breaking into the top 10 Portuguese players with the most appearances in <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/champions-league/">Champions League</a> history. That spot is currently held by Jose Bosingwa, who made 64 appearances with Boavista, Porto and Chelsea, as well as Vitor Baia, who played for Porto and Barcelona.



Top 10 Portuguese players by Champions League appearances:



1- Cristiano Ronaldo (183)



2- Pepe (120)



3- Luis Figo (103)



4- Bernardo Silva (101)



5- Ricardo Carvalho (86)



6- Deco (75)



7- Joao Moutinho (66)



8- Ruben Dias (65)



9- Vitor Baia (64)



10- Jose Bosingwa (64)



It is worth noting that this ranking only includes players who have featured in the competition since it adopted the UEFA Champions League format in the 1991-92 season. Before that, during its time as the European Cup, other Portuguese players also made their mark. The most notable case is Eusebio, who recorded 59 goals in 78 matches and won the title with Benfica in 1962.

Cristiano Ronaldo dethroned as Nuno Mendes claims Champions League record for Portuguese players

Cristiano Ronaldo dethroned as Nuno Mendes claims Champions League record for Portuguese players - World Soccer Talk

<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/portugal/">Portugal</a> will look to secure its ticket to the 2026 World Cup in Thursday’s qualifier against the Republic of Ireland at Dublin Arena. However, Cristiano Ronaldo will be without key teammate <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/nuno-mendes/">Nuno Mendes</a> as they aim to claim all three points.



Nuno Mendes won’t be playing against <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/ireland/">Ireland</a> as the left back has been left out from the Portugal squad due to injury. During Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League game against Bayern Munich, the left back ended up suffering a sprain in his left knee, forcing him to be sidelined for several weeks.



PSG did not specify an exact recovery timeline, but Nuno Mendes is expected to return to action before the end of the year. The Portuguese star — widely regarded as the best left-back in the world right now — will, however, miss the November FIFA international window with Portugal.



On Wednesday’s press conference, head coach Roberto Martinez addressed Mendes’ absence: “Nuno Mendes is the best player in the world. It’s very subjective, but I don’t see anyone better than him right now. He’s complete — he can push forward, cover the flanks, defend one-on-one, and he could even develop as a center-back. He’s special — no one can replace him,” Martínez said.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/06/09165845/nuno-mendes-portugal-1-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="Portugal MVP Nuno Mendes stated that he &apos;cancelled out Lamine Yamal.&apos;" class="wp-image-573722" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div><figcaption>Nuno Mendes of Portugal wins UEFA Nations League 2025 Finals MVP award.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Portugal hit with several absences</h2>



Mendes, who was named MVP in the UEFA Nations League final against Spain, represents a major loss for the Portugal national team, with Diogo Dalot expected to fill in at left back. However, he won’t be the only key player missing for Portugal.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/ireland-vs-portugal-live-cristiano-ronaldo-chases-world-cup-qualification/" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.worldsoccertalk.com%2Fwebp%2Ffull%2FWST_20251113_WST_603308_Liveblog1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal are tied 0-0 with Ireland in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Stay with us for live, minute-by-minute coverage of the match!
" title="Ireland vs. Portugal LIVE: Kickoff in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers! (0-0)" publication_id="WST#/news/ireland-vs-portugal-live-cristiano-ronaldo-chases-world-cup-qualification/"></div>


Bruno Fernandes, Pedro Neto, and Pedro Gonçalves will also miss the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/world-cup-qualifiers/">World Cup Qualifier</a> game against the Republic of Ireland. The Manchester United midfielder is serving a suspension after accumulating yellow cards in previous matches but will be available for the next game against Armenia on Sunday.



As for the two wingers, both Neto and Gonçalves picked up injuries in their most recent games with Chelsea and Sporting CP, respectively, forcing Portugal’s coaching staff to release them despite their inclusion in the official squad list. Still, with only three points needed to secure qualification for the World Cup, Portugal remains the clear favorite to finish atop Group F.

Why isn't star Nuno Mendes playing for Portugal vs. Ireland in key 2026 World Cup qualifier?

Why isn't star Nuno Mendes playing for Portugal vs. Ireland in key 2026 World Cup qualifier? - World Soccer Talk

As anticipation builds for Wednesday’s&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/club-world-cup/">Club World Cup</a> semifinal&nbsp;between&nbsp;Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, a seismic off-field development has begun to overshadow even this titanic soccer encounter. With both clubs vying for global dominance in New Jersey, reports suggest that&nbsp;a shock swap deal could be taking shape&nbsp;— one that may permanently alter the attacking and defensive dynamics of two of Europe’s most elite squads.



The semifinal between Real Madrid and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/psg/">PSG</a> at MetLife Stadium is the most anticipated matchup of the tournament. It’s the first meeting between the clubs in three years, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. With&nbsp;a final berth on the line&nbsp;and the echoes of past Champions League battles still fresh, the showdown promises intensity. But in the hours before kickoff,&nbsp;transfer whispers have erupted into full-blown speculation&nbsp;that the two sides could be on the verge of executing a deal that would shake the summer window to its core.



At the center of the rumored deal is&nbsp;Rodrygo Goes, the 23-year-old Brazilian forward whose role at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/real-madrid/">Real Madrid</a> has diminished under new head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/xabi-alonso/">Xabi Alonso</a>. Despite playing a key part in recent seasons, Rodrygo has been pushed to the fringes —&nbsp;just one start and two substitute appearances&nbsp;in five Club World Cup matches highlight his current status.



According to&nbsp;Gustavo Hofman of ESPN Brasil,&nbsp;“Rodrygo ended the 2024/25 campaign in a bad mood… particularly frustrated with having so few minutes on the left.”&nbsp;His name has circulated heavily in the transfer market, with&nbsp;Arsenal, Manchester City, and PSG&nbsp;reportedly monitoring his situation closely.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Analyzing All FIFA Club World Cup Semi-finalists" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yrAaxxxcYkU?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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While English clubs seem ready to pounce,&nbsp;the reigning Champions League winner has emerged as the most active suitor, even making contact with the Brazilian’s representatives. But Real Madrid, always strategic, have made their stance clear:&nbsp;they will only enter negotiations if Portuguese full-back Nuno Mendes is included in the deal.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/04/26223249/rodrygo-pedri-real-madrid-barcelona-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="rodrygo pedri real madrid barcelona" class="wp-image-567478" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



<h2>The Nuno Mendes factor</h2>



Nuno Mendes, just 23, has developed into one of Europe’s premier left-backs since joining PSG. His combination of pace, positioning, and consistency has seen him&nbsp;win a domestic treble and the UEFA Nations League&nbsp;with Portugal. PSG secured him permanently after an impressive loan from Sporting CP in 2021, but his name had long been on Real Madrid’s radar.



As revealed by the Spanish newspaper&nbsp;Marca,&nbsp;“Real Madrid had identified Mendes as a top priority in 2020, but the Covid-19 pandemic forced the club to halt incoming transfers.”&nbsp;That setback allowed PSG to swoop in and lock down a future star. Despite his recent contract renewal through 2029,&nbsp;Los Blancos’ admiration for Mendes remains strong, and his inclusion in a potential swap for Rodrygo is seen as essential by the club hierarchy.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/07/08140735/nuno-mendes-psg-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="nuno mendes psg" class="wp-image-578547" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



<h2>Deal dynamics and club relations</h2>



The proposed swap —&nbsp;Rodrygo for Mendes&nbsp;— appears equitable in valuation, with both players reportedly worth between&nbsp;$88 and $105 million. However, the execution is far from simple. Relations between PSG and Real Madrid have been frosty for years, particularly following the&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/kylian-mbappe/">Mbappe</a> saga, and a direct deal between the two powerhouses would mark a rare moment of cooperation.

Untouchable Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius duo takes first victim? Real Madrid-PSG talks surface pre-FIFA Club World Cup kickoff

Untouchable Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius duo takes first victim? Real Madrid-PSG talks surface pre-FIFA Club World Cup kickoff - World Soccer Talk

<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/nuno-mendes/">Nuno Mendes</a> emerged as the Most Valuable Player of the UEFA Nations League final, helping Portugal defeat Spain and secure another trophy in the Cristiano Ronaldo era. After the game, the standout left back made a bold statement, saying he “cancelled out <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lamine-yamal/">Lamine Yamal</a>.”



Yamal has been one of the breakout stars of the season and is already being discussed as a potential Ballon d’Or candidate, alongside names like Ousmane Dembele. But against Mendes, the 17-year-old struggled to make any meaningful impact. Subbed off in extra time without a goal or assist, Yamal was neutralized for most of the match. In his post-game press conference, Mendes didn’t shy away from assessing the one-on-one battle:



“It was a clash like many others this season. I’ve faced great technical and skilled players that can make the difference at any moment. Today, I managed to cancel out Lamine. I didn’t let him do what he does best. I think that helped the team a lot. I’m happy I contributed, and even happier that <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/portugal/">Portugal </a>won this trophy.”



Mendes’ lockdown performance on Yamal only strengthened his case as one of the best left backs in the world right now. In La Liga, Yamal completed 239 successful dribbles in 35 matches—an average of 6.8 per game. Against Mendes, he managed just two dribble attempts, completing only one. That stat line underscored just how effectively Mendes took him out of the game.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/06/09165725/nuno-mendes-portugal-lamine-yamal-spain-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-573721" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



On the other end of the field, Mendes was just as impactful. He scored Portugal’s opening goal and delivered the cross that led to Cristiano Ronaldo’s equalizer. He also led the match in completed dribbles (4 of 5) and won the most duels (7 of 10), making him a fully deserving MVP.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/cristiano-ronaldo-makes-surprise-revelation-about-injury-after-portugals-uefa-nations-league-win-over-spain/" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.worldsoccertalk.com%2Fwebp%2Ffull%2FWST_20250609_WST_573521_cristiano-ronaldo-portugal-nations-league.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Cristiano Ronaldo got subbed off in the UEFA Nations League final against Spain due to an injury, but after the game the Portugal star made a sudden revelation about his fitness.
" title="Cristiano Ronaldo makes surprise revelation about injury after Portugal’s UEFA Nations League win over Spain" publication_id="WST#/news/cristiano-ronaldo-makes-surprise-revelation-about-injury-after-portugals-uefa-nations-league-win-over-spain/"></div>


At just 22 years old, Mendes has already shut down Mohamed Salah and Bukayo Saka in the Champions League with Paris Saint-Germain—where he lifted the trophy this year. Now, after a dominant showing against one of football’s most exciting young attackers, Mendes is building a case for a truly unforgettable season.



<h2>Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence on Nuno Mendes</h2>



<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> made his debut for Portugal on August 20, 2003. More than two decades later, he’s still making an impact—not just on the pitch, but also as a mentor to his teammates. When asked about the presence of Ronaldo in the squad, Mendes didn’t hesitate to praise the veteran’s leadership.



“We’re very happy for him—another title, and he fully earned it. He helps us a lot on and off the pitch. He gives advice to me and the other teammates,” Mendes said, highlighting how Ronaldo has embraced a new phase of his career as a guiding figure for the next generation.



With Roberto Martínez taking over as head coach in 2023, Ronaldo has maintained his spot in the national team—even at age 40—and his influence is deeply felt by younger players. “We need to have him in the group. He’s very experienced, has a great attitude, and a winning mentality. He’s still very good. He’s a role model for the young players in the national team, and that helps us grow,” Mendes concluded.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="684754f89a59e2e0ea8f70aa" data-title="Did Nuno Mendes deserve the MVP award in the UEFA Nations League final?" data-options="2"></div>

Cristiano Ronaldo’s teammate, Portugal MVP Nuno Mendes sets record straight: ‘I cancelled out Lamine Yamal’

Cristiano Ronaldo’s teammate, Portugal MVP Nuno Mendes sets record straight: ‘I cancelled out Lamine Yamal’ - World Soccer Talk

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.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">GOOOAAAL FOR SPAIN! 🇪🇸 Zubimendi scores! 👏 <a href="https://t.co/SPYrkLsrFy">pic.twitter.com/SPYrkLsrFy</a>— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) <a href="https://twitter.com/FOXSoccer/status/1931794065038913711?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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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.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">OH MY! 🔥 Nuno Mendes with a STELLAR strike to level things for Portugal 🇵🇹 <a href="https://t.co/NFMhsWhWqR">pic.twitter.com/NFMhsWhWqR</a>— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) <a href="https://twitter.com/FOXSoccer/status/1931795390086660359?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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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.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Spain regains the lead! 🇪🇸 Oyarzabal scores to make it 2-1 <a href="https://t.co/mphlNElYK5">pic.twitter.com/mphlNElYK5</a>— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) <a href="https://twitter.com/FOXSoccer/status/1931799963111190878?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Video: Nuno Mendes scores equalizer for Portugal against Spain in the UEFA Nations League final

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

With over 200 caps for the national team, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> has solidified his legacy as one of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/portugal/">Portugal</a>’s greatest football legends. However, his recent comments criticizing players who choose not to represent the national team have sparked a response from teammate Nuno Mendes.



Ronaldo, who was honored with the Platinum Quinas award during the Quinas de Ouro gala on November 12 for the Portuguese Federation, used the moment to highlight his pride in playing for Portugal. In his speech, he sent a clear message to those who lack commitment to their country:



“I would like to take this opportunity to say, especially to my teammates, that after playing for so many clubs, winning so many trophies, Champions Leagues, Ballon d’Ors, FIFA awards… I don’t see anything better than representing the national team, your country. Representing the entire nation, the entire culture, your children, your mother, your father, your closest friends. I am often disappointed with some players who do not want to represent the national team.”



Paris Saint-Germain left-back Nuno Mendes, a key figure in the current Portugal squad, responded diplomatically when asked about Ronaldo’s remarks: “Everyone has their own opinion. I can speak for myself, I am very proud to represent Portugal and I think it shows, I give my all on the pitch and in training. I will always give my all and I will always be available to be here,” the left back told the reporters.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/16024136/Nuno-Mendes-portugal-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-540165" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



While Mendes did not fully align with Ronaldo’s stance, his comments reaffirmed his dedication to the national team. The 22-year-old has already earned 32 caps for Portugal, contributing five assists, including one to Rafael Leão in the recent 5-1 victory over <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/poland/">Poland</a> in the UEFA Nations League.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/speaking-volumes-cristiano-ronaldo-sends-short-but-vital-message-to-ex-teammate-and-new-manchester-united-boss-ruben-amorim/" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.worldsoccertalk.com%2Fwebp%2Ffull%2FWST_20241116_WST_540022_Speaking-volumes-Cristiano-Ronaldo-sends-short-but-vital-message-to-ex-teammate-and-new-Manchester-United-boss-Ruben-Amorim-2.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="While Ruben Amorim&apos;s move has sparked discussions across the soccer world, it was the reaction of&nbsp;Cristiano Ronaldo—a former Manchester United icon and Amorim&apos;s compatriot—that caught the spotlight.
" title="Speaking volumes: Cristiano Ronaldo sends short but vital message to ex-teammate and new Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim" publication_id="WST#/news/speaking-volumes-cristiano-ronaldo-sends-short-but-vital-message-to-ex-teammate-and-new-manchester-united-boss-ruben-amorim/"></div>


<h2>Ronaldo’s record-breaking legacy with Portugal</h2>



Since making his debut on August 20, 2003, Cristiano Ronaldo has redefined the standards of success in international football. He played an instrumental role in Portugal’s UEFA Euro 2016 and UEFA Nations League 2019 victories while setting unparalleled records on the international stage.



<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/cristiano-ronaldo-addresses-his-retirement-plans-after-surpassing-record-with-portugal/">Apart from surpassing former teammate Sergio Ramos’ record of most wins with a national team</a>, Ronaldo now holds the records for the most international appearances (217), most goals for a national team (136). With his recent brace against Poland, Ronaldo has reached 910 career goals. Although reaching the 1,000-goal milestone at nearly 40 years old may seem improbable, his career has been nothing short of extraordinary—and anything remains possible.

Nuno Mendes responds to Cristiano Ronaldo’s sharp criticism of Portugal teammates

Nuno Mendes responds to Cristiano Ronaldo’s sharp criticism of Portugal teammates - World Soccer Talk

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