Can age stop Cristiano Ronaldo? At 40, the Portuguese superstar etched his name in history again, guiding Portugal to the UEFA Nations League 2025 title with a dramatic penalty shootout win over Spain. His equalizing goal at Allianz Arena on June 9, 2025, proved he remains the heart of Selecao das Quinas. With this trophy, will Ronaldo chase his ultimate dream at the 2026 World Cup?
The 2025 UEFA Nations League final pitted Portugal against Spain at Allianz Arena on Monday (9/6/2025) early morning WIB. Spain took the lead with goals from Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Oyarzabal in the first half, but Nuno Mendes pulled one back for Portugal, ending the half at 2-1. In the second half, Ronaldo leveled the score with a strike in the 67th minute, forcing extra time. The 2-2 deadlock persisted, leading to a penalty shootout. Alvaro Morata’s miss sealed Portugal’s 5-3 victory, securing their second Nations League title after 2019. Ronaldo, subbed off in the 88th minute due to a minor injury, wept with joy as the trophy was lifted.
Bruno Fernandes, who brought the trophy to Ronaldo during a post-match interview, hailed his captain as the “greatest goalscorer” who continually drives the team. “He always wants to score, and we’re lucky to have him,” Fernandes said. Portugal’s coach, Roberto Martinez, called Ronaldo a “turning point in Portuguese football history,” highlighting his role in three international trophies: Euro 2016, Nations League 2019, and Nations League 2025. Despite his injury, Ronaldo’s presence on the sidelines fueled his teammates’ resolve.
This triumph takes Ronaldo’s major trophy count to 38, including 16 with Real Madrid, 8 with Manchester United, and 3 with Portugal. He’s now the oldest player to score in a UEFA Nations League final, cementing his living legend status. Yet, the World Cup remains his elusive dream, with 2026 as his likely final shot. Diogo Dalot voiced the team’s goal: “We want Ronaldo to end his career with a World Cup.” Though Ronaldo once equated Euro 2016 to a World Cup, his burning ambition at this stage of his career is undeniable.
The final showcased a generational clash between Ronaldo and Spain’s young star, Lamine Yamal. Despite Yamal’s flair, Ronaldo’s crucial goal “silenced” him, sparking social media buzz about experience trumping youth. Ronaldo’s tears post-match reflected the trophy’s weight, especially after a title drought with Al-Nassr since 2023. Speculation about his future persists, with some questioning if a World Cup win would prompt retirement.
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