The 2024/25 Nations League delivered breathtaking football and unforgettable moments, culminating in a dramatic final in Munich where Portugal defeated Spain on penalties to claim their second Nations League title.
📅 Key Dates
- League Phase: September – November 2024
- Quarter-Finals: 20–23 March 2025
- Final Four (Germany): 4–8 June 2025
- Final Venue: Allianz Arena, Munich
🏆 Champions: Portugal 🇵🇹
Portugal became the first team in history to win the Nations League twice, adding to their 2019 triumph. In a thrilling final against Spain, the match ended 2–2 in regular time before Portugal held their nerve to win 5–3 on penalties.
- Cristiano Ronaldo: Scored in the final and lifted his last major international trophy with tears in his eyes
- Nuno Mendes: Named Player of the Tournament for his dynamic performances
- Francisco Conceição & Ruben Neves: Played crucial roles in Portugal’s midfield domination
🥈 Runners-Up: Spain 🇪🇸
Spain led twice in the final but couldn’t hold off a determined Portuguese side. After winning the previous edition in 2023, they now have two final losses on their record (2021 and 2025), despite strong showings from Zubimendi and Oyarzabal.
🥉 France and Hosts Germany
- France beat Germany 2–0 in the third-place match in Stuttgart
- Germany, debuting in the Final Four, impressed in March but fell short on home soil
🌟 Highlights & Records
- First Knockout Round: This edition introduced March quarter-finals, adding more intensity and travel opportunities
- Emotional Farewell?: Ronaldo’s teary-eyed celebrations hint at the end of an iconic international career
- Final Atmosphere: Allianz Arena was electric for the finale, with traveling fans from both nations packing the stands
✍️ Final Thoughts
The 2024/25 Nations League marked a turning point for the tournament: a new format, tighter knockouts, and one emotional conclusion. Portugal’s triumph, led by a mix of golden veterans and rising stars, will be remembered as one of the most poignant international wins in recent history.
_____
Article updated on June 13th, 2025
The 2025 Gamper Trophy on August 10th in Barcelona Champions League 2024/25 Season Recap – PSG Finally Conquer Europe La Liga 2024/25 Season Recap – Barça’s Revival & Mbappé’s Firepower Premier League 2024/25 Season – Liverpool and Salah Return to the Top Serie A 2024/25 Season – Napoli Seize the Scudetto & Retegui Shines Belgian Pro League 2024/25 Season – Union Saint-Gilloise Make History