The 2025 Ballon d'Or race just took a dramatic turn following the UEFA Nations League Final. Portugal’s dominant 3-1 win over Spain not only secured the trophy but also catapulted two of its brightest stars—Nuno Mendes and Vitinha—into serious Ballon d’Or contention. While the footballing world had been raving about teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, it was Portugal’s dynamic duo that stole the spotlight on the biggest night.

Here’s how Mendes and Vitinha changed the narrative of this year’s Ballon d'Or conversation, and why Yamal's subdued final might cost him dearly.

Portugal’s Golden Boys: The Making of a New Era

The final whistle in Lisbon confirmed what many had begun to suspect during the Nations League knockout stage: Portugal’s new generation isn’t just promising—it’s elite. And leading this new wave are Paris Saint-Germain’s left-back Nuno Mendes and PSG's midfield metronome Vitinha.

Both players were integral to Portugal’s Nations League campaign, playing every match and delivering when it mattered most. In the final against Spain, Mendes bagged a goal and provided an assist, while Vitinha orchestrated the midfield with the composure of a veteran.

Mendes' marauding run down the left wing in the 33rd minute led to a powerful finish that opened the scoring, sending the Estádio da Luz into a frenzy. Moments later, he curled in a pinpoint cross that found João Félix for the second goal.

Vitinha, meanwhile, had a 91% pass accuracy, completed five key passes, and was directly involved in the build-up to all three goals Portugal scored. His ability to transition from defence to attack, press intelligently, and create chances from deep positions has been praised by pundits and fans alike.

Mendes & Vitinha: Why the Ballon d’Or Hype is Real

Until recently, names like Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, and Jude Bellingham dominated early Ballon d’Or 2025 predictions. But after their stellar Nations League display, Mendes and Vitinha have added their names to the shortlist—and deservedly so.

What’s Working for Them:

• Trophy Boost: Historically, major international trophies close to Ballon d'Or voting season play a huge role in tipping the scales. Just like Modrić in 2018 and Messi in 2021, this win gives Mendes and Vitinha an upper hand.

• Big-Match Impact: It’s not just that Portugal won—it’s how they did it. Mendes and Vitinha were not just part of the squad; they were decisive.

• Consistency in Club Form: Both players had excellent club seasons with PSG. Mendes, despite injury concerns earlier in the year, returned with high-impact performances in Ligue 1 and Champions League. Vitinha has quietly become one of Europe’s most complete midfielders.

• Narrative Momentum: Ballon d’Or voters don’t just look at stats—they buy into the story. Mendes and Vitinha’s rise adds a compelling chapter to the award’s storyline.

Lamine Yamal: The Hype Meets Reality

While Portugal celebrated, it was a night of disappointment for Lamine Yamal, who had been touted as the frontrunner for Ballon d'Or 2025, especially after his scintillating displays for Barcelona and his breakout performances earlier in the tournament.

But in the final, the 17-year-old struggled. Marked tightly by Mendes and João Cancelo, Yamal failed to register a single shot on target or complete any dribbles in the attacking third—a rare stat line for a player known for his fearless take-ons and creativity.

Yamal’s dip in performance doesn’t necessarily end his Ballon d'Or hopes, but it throws cold water on the “next Messi” comparisons and re-opens the door for others. In short, the final didn’t break him—but it might have broken his momentum.

What the Numbers Say

Here’s a quick statistical comparison of the three players in the Nations League 2025:

While Yamal’s overall tournament was impressive, the final—arguably the most watched and judged game—matters in a race this close.

Who Else is in the Ballon d'Or 2025 Mix?

It would be premature to declare Mendes or Vitinha as favourites just yet. The award is still months away, and the remaining calendar includes league starts, Champions League, and domestic cups.

Other frontrunners include:

• Kylian Mbappé – Still the poster boy of world football, especially if Real Madrid win the Champions League.

• Erling Haaland – Golden Boot leader across Europe, but international performances lacked sparkle.

• Jude Bellingham – Commanding presence in midfield for both club and country, and his Euro 2024 impact is still fresh.

• Vinícius Jr. – Excellent form for Real Madrid and still in contention with major trophies.

• Lionel Messi – Always a wild card, especially if Inter Miami lift Leagues Cup again and he dazzles in Copa America.

What Lies Ahead: Can Mendes or Vitinha Seal It?

For Mendes and Vitinha, the Ballon d’Or dream is no longer a fantasy. But they must now maintain their momentum.

• Champions League Performance: PSG’s journey in Europe will be crucial. A strong campaign, especially knockout-stage heroics, could lock in their chances.

• Individual Accolades: PFA-style awards, club player of the season, and FIFA Best votes also carry weight.

• Media Narrative: Ballon d'Or voters are journalists, after all. Headlines matter. If Mendes and Vitinha continue making front-page performances, their stock will rise further.

Football World Reacts

The football community reacted swiftly after the final:

• Rio Ferdinand: “Mendes was unstoppable. This kid’s got everything. You’re looking at a future Ballon d'Or winner—if not this year, very soon.”

• Cesc Fàbregas: “Vitinha is what you want in a midfielder. Calm, clever, clean. Reminds me of Xavi in how he controls the rhythm.”

• Spanish Media (Marca): “Yamal was made human. The final was a reminder that he is still learning. The Ballon d'Or may come, but not this year.”

Final Thoughts: The Ballon d'Or Race Just Got Interesting

One match doesn’t decide the Ballon d'Or—but some matches define a campaign. Portugal’s win, powered by Mendes and Vitinha, may become the turning point of this year’s race. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on whether these two stars can maintain their level and edge out the traditional favourites.

As for Yamal, his journey is just beginning. The final may be a stumble, but it’s not the end. Legends are forged in failure as much as in success.

But make no mistake—Mendes and Vitinha are no longer underdogs. They’ve arrived. And if 2025’s Ballon d'Or goes to Portugal, don’t be surprised. They earned it, one dazzling performance at a time.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies

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