Yamal-Ronaldo duel takes centre stage as Spain defend Nations League trophy against Portugal

Portugal and Spain are both looking to secure their second UEFA Nations League title when they meet at Bayern Munich’s home, the Allianz Arena, in the 2025 final on Sunday.

Portugal won the inaugural Nations League title in 2019, beating the Netherlands in the final. Remember, this is only the fourth edition. The new competition, introduced to provide more competitive international matches for smaller teams, eradicates meaningless friendlies for the traditional powerhouses. We have had enough of San Marino or the Faroe Islands getting battered by Portugal, England, or Germany. Simply put, it replaced boring international friendlies with competitive matches.

So, is it a glorified friendly tournament? The debate continues. However, when big teams compete against each other, excitement arises, and stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, who are so hungry to win trophies even in the twilight of their career, treat it as a major trophy. He hasn’t won a major trophy in four years for club and country. It’s an opportunity for him to end that drought. Even at 40, his ability to make a difference is remarkable. It was his goal that completed the comeback against Germany. He remains as hungry as ever. Can he deliver one more time?

On the other side, de la Fuente’s Spanish side are the reigning European champions and the holders of the Nations League title (they defeated Croatia 5-4 on penalties in the 2023 final). They are a technical side, who are fearless, led by 17-year-old Lamine Yamal on the wing, who is keeping the jogo bonito alive and kicking. La Roja defeated France 5-4 in the semi-finals, while Portugal defeated Germany in Germany for the first time since the year 2000, winning 2-1.

Apart from the 17-year-old Lamine Yamal and 40-year-old CR7 narrative, there are several important matchups. The Pedri vs Vitinha battle in midfield is the one to watch out. Both have had stellar seasons at club level; both are incredibly technical and press-resistant players who can control the proceedings. Vitinha’s arrival helped Portugal regain control against Germany, and Pedri’s substitution encouraged France to fight back from 5-1.

Another fascinating encounter will be on the wings: Nico Williams vs Semedo, Lamine Yamal vs Nuno Mendes, Conceição/Trincao vs Cucurella, Pedro Neto/Leão vs Porro.

Nico Williams has been exceptional on the left wing for Spain, and even his early substitution against France had a negative impact. He was tormenting Kalulu and pinning back the French. Bringing Olmo on for him cut down the natural width he was providing, plus Olmo couldn’t provide the defensive cover that Nico did.

Lamine has become a big-game player. He has already scored goals in the Euros, El Clásicos, and big Champions League nights. CR7 asked us not to pile pressure on Lamine Yamal during his press conference, but the 17-year-old has already shown he’s ice cold when it matters. Watch the penalty he scored against France to see what I’m trying to say here. However, he is going to battle against the best left-back of this season in Nuno Mendes, who once again proved pivotal in attack and defence against the Germans. He had a stellar season at PSG. He locked up Salah, Dumfries, and others in the Champions League. Can he stop Lamine Yamal today?

Portugal’s squad is one of the best in the world. They have talent stacked all around the pitch. They can even field an A team and a B team. However, I’m not sure whether Roberto Martínez is the man to lead this golden generation to a major trophy, having failed to do it with Belgium’s golden generation.

Spain, however, don’t have a huge squad, but their strength relies on de la Fuente’s system, which suits their flamboyant wingers. They don’t just keep possession for the sake of it; they are also ready to defend and counter when required. They had less possession when they defeated France in the semi-finals. They are susceptible in defence, but they are a fearless unit who are fun to watch. Finally, Unai Simón vs Diogo Costa is also a battle to watch.