Cristiano Ronaldo was very emotional after Portugal beat Spain in a thrilling penalty shootout in the UEFA Nations League final on Sunday.

Ronaldo wasn't able to be on the pitch for the penalty shootout as he sustained an injury near the final minutes of the second half. Portugal manager Roberto Martinez replaced him with Goncalo Ramos in the 88th minute, officially ending Ronaldo's time in the match.

That didn't mean the veteran striker didn't have a big impact on the game. He scored what was a crucial equalizer in the 61st minute, tying the game at two goals apiece between Portugal and Spain.

Luckily for him, his teammates stepped up in his absence as they got the job done in the penalty shootout, winning 5-3. This secured Ronaldo his second UEFA Nations League title, his first in the 2018-19 edition, propelling him to have a lot of emotions after the win.

What's next for Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal

Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo (7) reacts during the second half of the group stage match in the 2022 World Cup at Lusail Stadium.
Yukihito Taguchi-Imagn Images
Article Continues Below
More Soccer News
United States defender Ali Krieger (center) carries midfielder Carli Lloyd while playing a game during a training session for the 2015 Women's World Cup at Empire Field South.
USWNT legends Carli Lloyd, Ali Krieger help US Women repeat as TST champsMiguel La Torre ·
LA Galaxy former player Landon Donovan looks on before the 2024 MLS Cup against the New York Red Bulls at Dignity Health Sports Park.
USMNT legend Landon Donovan bluntly calls out players opting out of Gold CupMiguel La Torre ·
National Womens Soccer League (NWSL) soccer balls are seen on the field prior to a match between San Diego Wave FC and Racing Louisville FC at Lynn Family Stadium.
Boston Legacy FC unveils official logo as 2026 NWSL debut approachesJess Koffie ·
NJ/NY Gotham FC players are recognized for their Concaf W Champions Cup victory after the match against the Kansas City Current at Sports Illustrated Stadium.
NWSL introduces roster building moves to prepare for expansion teamsJordan Llanes ·
Al Nassr player Cristiano Ronaldo reacts after being substituted in a Saudi Pro League soccer match at King Abdullah Sports City.
Cristiano Ronaldo drops honest Lamine Yamal assessment ahead of first meetingQuinn Allen ·
Grizzlies forward Santi Aldama, UD Las Palmas soccer club logo, McDonald's box
Exclusive: Grizzlies’ Santi Aldama’s ‘cheat day’ plans based around UD Las Palmas soccerChris Dodson ·

Cristiano Ronaldo now has three international titles to his name as Portugal's star. His first came in the 2016 UEFA Euro in France as the 2018-19 and 2024-25 UEFA Nations Leagues now follow.

Ronaldo continues to be persistent in playing at a high level while keeping himself in amazing condition at age 40. His club future remains a mystery following the end of the 2024-25 season with Al Nassr. However, it is clear that he will keep going until he says it's time to call it a career.

As for Portugal, they will busy throughout this upcoming fall. They will prepare for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers that will start in September. The squad is in Group F, seeing themselves face the likes of Hungary, Ireland and Armenia.

Portugal has had an active presence in the FIFA World Cup since 2002, appearing in the last six editions. Ronaldo will certainly have a role in helping them extend it to seven, as he looks to have an interest in making one last run at the title with his country.

Portugal's first match of the qualifying cycle will be against Armenia. That matchup will take place on Sept. 6 at noon ET.