Man United’s Bruno Fernandes shines as Portugal triumph over Spain in UEFA Nations League final | OneFootball

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes was crucial for Portugal as they beat neighbours Spain in a penalty shootout to settle an intense final in Munich and win their second Nations League trophy.

Spain took the lead in the 21st minute through Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi. Striker Mikel Oyarzabal flicked the ball into the middle, inviting Zubimendi to drive forward before he passed it on to Lamine Yamal. The teenager lifted a clever ball over the top, catching Portugal’s defence off guard. Failing to clear their lines, Zubimendi pounced and calmly slotted the ball into an empty net.

However, Spain’s lead didn’t last too long as Portugal restored parity just five minutes later. Nuno Mendes weaved his way past the Spanish defence and slammed a shot into the far bottom corner.

Spain went ahead for a second time as Mikel Oyarzabal got past two defenders and fired past Diogo Costa.

But it wasn’t over yet and once again, the man of the moment, Cristiano Ronaldo, rose to the occasion when his team needed him most. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner demonstrated some clever movement to get the beating of Marc Cucurella and produce the finishing touch, making it 2-2.

The two sides couldn’t be separated in regulation time, and even after extra time, the deadlock persisted, leaving the outcome to be decided by a penalty shootout. Costa denied Alvaro Morata from the spot-kick to secure the victory for the Selecao.

Fernandes featured for the entire game. While the United skipper had a quiet first half, he grew into the game after the break as Portugal began to assert greater control. He thought he had got on the score sheet but his goal was ruled out because of a Pedro Neto offside in the build-up.

Fernandes confidently converted his penalty in the shootout. Notably, after Ronaldo was forced off with an injury, it was Fernandes who took the armband and captained Portugal through the remainder of the match.

The 30-year-old playmaker found his teammates with 26 of the 30 passes he attempted (87% pass accuracy). He successfully connected with one of the four crosses he aimed.

He won three of the nine ground duels he embarked on. Fernandes made two clearances and as many tackles.

The United man intercepted the ball once.

(Stats obtained from Sofascore)

Fernandes delivered with his trademark brilliance, and it’s fitting to see him end the season with silverware, especially after enduring a turbulent campaign with United.

Diogo Dalot was on the bench for the win over Spain.

Featured image Lars Baron via Getty Images

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