June 9, 2025 - Portugal, along with Cristiano Ronaldo, has won the UEFA Nations League for the second time since 2019. After this continental victory, Ronaldo said that winning a title for Portugal means more to him than any trophy he has won in his club career.

The 40-year-old Ronaldo has won 32 trophies, big and small, during his 23-year club football career. This is also the third time he has lifted a trophy with the national team. He first won one for Portugal in the 2016 Euro Championship.

Portugal defeated Spain 5-3 in a penalty shootout in the Nations League final at the Allianz Arena in Munich on June 8 night. The match ended 2-2 after 120 minutes, leading to penalties. Portugal came from behind twice - Nuno Mendes scored the first equaliser and  Ronaldo scored the second.

Ronaldo scored Portugal’s second goal - his 138th in international football. After the win, he was seen teary eyed. Speaking to Sport TV, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner said, “What a joy! First of all, for this generation. They deserved such a big title. For our families too - my children are here, my wife, my brother and friends.”

Ronaldo shared how special it was to win this title for his country.

“Winning for Portugal is always special. I have many trophies with my clubs. But nothing is greater than winning for Portugal. The tears, the responsibility… all these are pure joy.”

Ronaldo has been playing for the Portugal national team since 2003. Now with Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, he said, “It is a special feeling to play for Portugal. Being the captain of this generation is a matter of pride. Winning for the national team is the highest honour.”

Just like in the Euro 2016 final, Ronaldo could not finish the game owing to injury. He had to watch from the dug-out during the tiebreaker.

Reflecting on this, he said, “I felt a little discomfort during the warm-up. I wasn’t feeling well. But it’s a national team match. Even if I have to break my leg, I’ll play. I want to win trophies, give my best - for my country. We are a small Nation, but our ambition is huge.”