Football fans across the world are expecting a thrilling final game as Spain takes on Portugal in the UEFA Nations League final this Sunday, June 8, 2025, at Munich’s Allianz Arena. This match will have Cristiano Ronaldo and rising star Lamine Yamal, both representing different generations and originally belonging to Spain’s biggest rival clubs- Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. Their clash makes this match even more special.
How Did Portugal And Spain Reach The Final?
Portugal reached the final after a 2-1 win over host nation Germany. Florian Wirtz gave Germany the lead, but Francisco Conceicao equalised before Ronaldo scored the winner just five minutes later.
Spain advanced after a thrilling 5-4 victory over France in what many are calling one of the best international games in recent memory. Yamal scored a brace and stood out among the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele.
Yamal On Playing Against Ronaldo
The young Barcelona forward, at just 17, has been a standout for club and country, playing a crucial role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph and helping Barça win a domestic treble. He said after Spain’s semifinal win: “Playing against Cristiano? He’s a football legend. I’ll do my job, which is to win the game, and that’s it.”
Ronaldo, now 40, may be nearing the end of his legendary career, but he’s still delivering in crucial moments. This final could mark one of the last times we see the five-time Ballon d’Or winner in a major international final.
The UEFA Nations League has become more than just a filler tournament. It has added meaning to international breaks, replacing friendlies with serious competition. With the 2026 World Cup ahead, this final serves as a valuable test for both squads.
The last time these two teams met was in 2022, when Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 in Braga with a late goal from Alvaro Morata. Spain has historically dominated the rivalry with 17 wins out of 34 encounters.
Probable Lineups:
- Portugal: Diogo Costa; Neves, Dias, Inacio, Mendes; R. Neves, B. Silva; Trincao, Fernandes, Neto; Ronaldo
- Spain: Simon; Porro, Huijsen, Le Normand, Cucurella; Zubimendi, Merino, Pedri; Yamal, N. Williams, Oyarzabal
