Portugal secured a 1-0 win against favourites France through Eder's stunning extra-time strike in Paris.
Wild celebrations met the final whistle as the Portuguese clinched a first-ever major tournament, 12 years on from being overturned by unfancied Greece at the end of the European Championship they hosted.
At a press conference afterwards, coach Santos could not hide his delight: "First of all, I would like to thank God, the Father, for this moment and for everything in my life."
Santos, a practicing Catholic, added: "We have an amazing group. They've always believed what I told them: That we could win this.
"Lastly, but most importantly, I want to speak to my best friend [Jesus], and His mother, to dedicate this victory to Him and thank Him for having chosen me.
"For having given me the gifts of wisdom, humility and perseverance to guide this team, and for having guided me and lit my way.
"That all I do, hope and wish for may be for the greater glory of His name."
Elsewhere, captain Cristiano Ronaldo also gave the glory to God for the win.
Despite having to hobble off the pitch injured after just 25 minutes he said it was "one of the happiest moments in my career".
"Thank God, things went well for us," he said.
"This was something I have wanted for a long time now, ever since 2004. I asked God to give me another chance. The Portuguese people deserve this, our players deserved this."