Diogo Costa saved a crucial penalty as Portugal defeated Spain in a shootout to claim the UEFA Nations League trophy in Munich. The Portuguese goalkeeper proved to be the hero when it mattered most.
"My job during the penalty shootout was to lift our team's spirit and help my teammates. So my save was about helping my team, and I'm very happy it worked out in the end," Costa explained after the match.
The shot-stopper was quick to share credit with his teammates, emphasizing the collective effort behind the victory. All of Portugal's penalty takers converted their attempts flawlessly, displaying remarkable composure under pressure.
When asked about his technique for stopping Alvaro Morata's penalty, Costa remained somewhat secretive. "If I told you my secret now, it wouldn't be a surprise anymore!" he said with a smile. "I rely a lot on instincts. I watch the opponents' body language, their eyes, and then it's all about my feeling and determination to reach the ball."
Interestingly, the goalkeeper expressed supreme confidence in Portugal's quality and future prospects. "It's completely obvious that our team possesses enormous quality. Everyone can see we have enough quality to bring joy to all Portuguese people," he stated.
The "European Selecao" goalkeeper even set his sights on football's biggest prize. "Win the World Cup? Let's do it!" he declared boldly.
By the way, the victory came at a cost for Portugal as Cristiano Ronaldo suffered an injury during the final. The extent of the superstar's injury remains unclear at this point.
Can Costa's penalty-stopping heroics and this Nations League triumph be the springboard for Portugal's World Cup ambitions? This team certainly doesn't lack confidence.
