Kerava: In a compelling twist of Iberian sporting rivalry, Portugal defeated neighbours Spain by 57 runs in the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Europe Sub Regional Qualifier C in Kerava, Finland, keeping their dream of reaching the 2028 T20 World Cup firmly alive. The victory provided a light-hearted moment of sporting revenge for Portugal, coming just weeks after Spain knocked them out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States.

Led by former Australia international Moises Henriques, Portugal produced a composed and disciplined performance after Spain captain Christian Munoz-Mills won the toss and elected to field. Openers Dhavalkumar Norotam (23) and Christopher De Freitas (39) established a steady foundation before Henriques contributed 18. Late acceleration from Craig Cachopa (25 off 21 balls) and an explosive unbeaten 18 off eight deliveries from Jeremy Martins propelled Portugal to a competitive total of 160/6. Yasir Ali (2/24) and Lorne Burns (2/29) were the standout performers with the ball for Spain.

Spain’s run chase unravelled under sustained pressure from the Portuguese attack. As detailed in official ICC match reports, early strikes from Sebastian de Oliveira and Jeremy Martins reduced Spain to 32/3. Although Yasir Ali (29) and Daniel Doyle Calle attempted to rebuild the innings, spinner Siraj Ullah Khadem provided the vital breakthrough in the 11th over by bowling Ali. Khadem finished with impressive figures of 2/19, while Edward Fleming delivered a decisive spell of 3/13 to tear through the lower order. Martins sealed the triumph by bowling Lorne Burns, bowling Spain out for 103 in 17.1 overs.

The 57-run victory officially terminates Spain’s qualification campaign while sending Portugal through to the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Europe Qualifier in 2027. Portugal join Jersey and Denmark as sub-regional qualifier winners, moving one step closer to the global showpiece.