A football fan has died after falling from the second tier of a stand during the Nations League final between Portugal and Spain.
Portugal lifted their second Nations League trophy on Sunday night after beating neighbours Spain on penalties in a thrilling final at Munich’s Allianz Arena.
But the showpiece event was marred by the tragic passing of a fan who fell from the second tier of the main stand onto the seating area below.
Paramedics and stadium stewards were seen rushing to attend to the supporter following the fall, which occurred during extra-time.
The game continued while the person was being treated but UEFA confirmed they could not be revived.
‘There was a medical emergency at the Munich arena, and despite the best efforts of the medical team, the person sadly passed away at 00:06 (CET),’ a statement read.
‘Our thoughts are with their loved ones at this difficult time.’
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente began his post-match press conference by offering his sympathies to the supporter’s loved ones.
‘I want to express my condolences to the family of a fan who has died,’ De la Fuente said. ‘That has made us realize what is important in life.’
Player of the Match, Nuno Mendes, added: ‘I would like to express my condolences to the family of the fan that died. It casts a pall on our victory today.’
Portugal beat Spain in frenetic final
Portugal came from behind twice to take the fourth Nations League final to extra-time and then penalties.
Martin Zubimendi, who has been heavily linked with a summer move to Arsenal, gave Spain the lead but Portugal equalised just five minutes later through Mendes.
Mikel Oyarzabal, who scored the winner when Spain beat England in the Euro 2024 final, restored his team’s lead on the stroke of half-time before Cristiano Ronaldo levelled once again on the hour mark.
Portugal emerged triumphant in the penalty shootout as Diogo Costa saved Alvaro Morata’s tame spot-kick before Ruben Neves slotted home the decisive penalty.
Ronaldo, 40, was reduced to tears after adding another Nations League title to his remarkable CV.
Portugal boss Roberto Martinez said: ‘When we work for over 30 games, we start to see confidence, resilience, trust, and quality. Quality plus the other values helps you win trophies.
‘We don’t just have a team; we have 16-17 players on the same level, and, as a coach, I have many options and can change concepts. It’s a different team to when I started; we have more character and confidence.’
Euro 2024-winning coach De la Fuente added: ‘Details do make the difference, and that was a game which I think was super balanced.
‘But when we were coming to the end of the extra time, I thought we were doing enough to avoid going to penalties.
‘Sadly, that’s what decided the match, and they, on the night, were just slightly better and more effective in the shoot-out.’
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