Skip to content

Portugal edges past Netherlands to win inaugural Nations League

Steve Bardens - UEFA / UEFA / Getty

Portugal captured its second international trophy in less than three years by beating the Netherlands 1-0 on Sunday and winning the first-ever Nations League.

The defending European champion was rewarded for dominating the first hour when Goncalo Guedes fired the host into the lead with a powerful strike to break the deadlock and, ultimately, secure the trophy.

The Netherlands were completely outmatched in the first half but managed to reach the interval level despite being outshot 12-0.

Bernardo Silva, who was named the Player of the Tournament, found Guedes at the edge of the penalty area 15 minutes into the second half, and the Valencia midfielder's effort ricocheted in off Jasper Cillessen's hands to open the scoring.

The Dutch increased the pressure in the closing stages, but Fernando Santos' men were able to preserve the clean sheet.

Cristiano Ronaldo ended the UEFA Nations League finals as the top scorer with three goals, all of which he scored against Switzerland in the semifinal.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox