Nuno Mendes ‘very happy’ for Cristiano Ronaldo after helping Portugal to Nations League title | OneFootball

PSG left-back Nuno Mendes says he “cancelled out” Barcelona superstar Lamine Yamal as he helped Portugal to win the Nations League for the second time.

The 24-year-old was awarded player of the finals after stopping the Barca phenom, who had been so devastating in the semi-final clash against France for Spain.

After falling behind, Mendes popped up with a superb strike into the bottom right corner to bring Roberto Martinez’s side level, before Cristiano Ronaldo brought Portugal level for a second time midway through the second half.

Yamal was subbed off in extra time, before Alvaro Morata’s penalty was saved by Diogo Costa during the penalty shoot-out to see Portugal claim glory.

Speaking after, Mendes says him stopping the 17-year-old helped his side towards the title, and potentially PSG teammate Ousmane Dembele’s hunt for Ballon d’Or success.

“It was a clash [with Yamal] like many others I have had during the season,” Mendes said. “I have faced up to many great players, very technically skilled players who can make a difference, but today I cancelled out Lamine and [did] not let him do what he does best.

“This helped the team and I am happy I helped the team to win this trophy. It’s all about being consistent. I have played many good games and it’s about the work I do individually and with the coaches at PSG and Portugal.

“The Ballon d’Or? I play with Ousmane [Dembele] and he had a wonderful season, Lamine also had a wonderful season. But Ousmane will be in the Club World Cup and Lamine won’t, so I’m very happy for Ousmane.

“He had a lot of injuries at Barca before arriving at PSG, but he is an amazing player. I like him very much as a player and a man.”

Mendes was also pleased to help captain Ronaldo to more silverware for his country, his third in total, and praised the 40-year-old for his continued impact on the team.

“We’re very happy for Cristiano to win another title,” Mendes said. “He helps us on the pitch and he also helps us off the pitch with lots of advice for all the players, including myself.

“We need him in the group. He has a great attitude and winning mentality. He is a role model for the team and the group.”