Credits: X/@SpainIsFootball

How Many Nations League Finals Has Spain Played?

After overcoming Germany and France respectively in hard-fought semi-finals, Portugal and Spain now prepare to battle for European supremacy.

Credits: X/@SpainIsFootball

Spain have firmly established themselves as one of the most consistent forces in the UEFA Nations League since its inception. As they prepare for a blockbuster final clash with rivals Portugal in Munich, La Roja will go all guns blazing in a blockbuster final that promises high drama.

This final showdown not only renews a fierce rivalry between these two nations but also showcases two generational stars – Cristiano Ronaldo and Lamine Yamal. The two attackers have played pivotal roles in guiding their respective nations to the title decider. After overcoming Germany and France respectively in hard-fought semi-finals, Portugal and Spain now prepare to battle for European supremacy in one of the most anticipated international finals in recent memory.

All Finals Played by Spain Men’s National Football Team

Let’s look at Spain’s journey through previous Nations League Finals:

2021 UEFA Nations League: Spain vs France

Spain reached their first Nations League final in 2021, where they faced world champions France. After a tense hour, the match suddenly exploded into life in the last 30 minutes. Mikel Oyarzabal gave Spain the lead in the 64th minute, but it lasted barely two minutes before Karim Benzema equalised for France with a curling strike. France fought back in the match just as it had done in the semifinals against Belgium.

The controversy came late on in the match when Kylian Mbappe scored the winner despite appearing offside. The VAR decision stood and it helped France secure the title, leaving Spain with heartbreak in Milan. France keeper Lloris even produced two late saves to ensure victory for the then world champions.

2023 Final – Croatia 0-0 Spain (AET, Spain win 5-4 on penalties, Rotterdam)

Two years later, Spain returned stronger hoping to end their decade-long trophy drought. After a goalless but gripping contest against Croatia in Rotterdam, the final went to penalties. Spain had the better chances in second-half with winger Marco Asensio coming close with a header. Fabian Ruiz narrowly chipped over while Ansu Fati was denied on the line by Ivan Perisic late on in the game.

Goalkeeper Unai Simon proved to be the hero for France, saving two spot-kicks, while Dani Carvajal sealed victory for Spain with a calm Panenka penalty. That win delivered Spain their first major international trophy since Euro 2012, ending their 11-year trophy drought.

2025 Final – Spain vs Portugal (Munich)

Now, in 2025, Spain find themselves back in the Nations League final, this time facing familiar foes Portugal. The matchup promises fireworks with 39-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo and teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal on display in an epic new rivalry. While Portugal will look to reclaim the title they first won in 2019, Spain are on a mission to defend their Nations League crown.

Nations League

Nations League Final

Portugal

Spain

UEFA Nations League

Abhinav Goel

soccer

I am a soccer writer at The PlayOffs, covering everything from match analysis to transfer buzz and tactical deep dives. Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been more than just a sport to me—it’s been an obsession. Playing and watching the game from a young age fueled my passion, eventually leading me into the world of sports media and betting. Now, I get to analyze the sport I love and bring the latest updates to fans worldwide.