Stuttgart, Germany – In a breathtaking UEFA Nations League semifinal, Spain triumphed 5-4 over France in a match filled with drama, stunning goals, and a late French fightback that nearly forced extra time. Barcelona’s 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal was the star of the show, scoring twice and further solidifying his status as one of the world’s brightest talents.
With this victory, Spain advances to the Nations League final, where they will face Portugal in Munich on Sunday. Meanwhile, France will play Germany in the third-place playoff in Stuttgart.
Match Summary: A Rollercoaster of Goals
First Half Dominance: Spain Take Control
Spain came out firing, displaying their trademark possession-based attacking football.
- Nico Williams (21’) opened the scoring with a clinical finish after a well-worked team move.
- Mikel Merino (33’) doubled the lead with a powerful header from a pinpoint cross.
France, usually so composed, looked shell-shocked as Spain dominated midfield and exploited defensive gaps.
Yamal’s Brilliance Extends Spain’s Lead
The second half saw Lamine Yamal take center stage:
- Penalty Won & Converted (52’) – Yamal was brought down by Adrien Rabiot and coolly sent Mike Maignan the wrong way to make it 3-0.
- Pedri (58’) added a fourth, finishing off a slick assist from Williams.
At 4-0, the game seemed over, but France finally responded:
- Kylian Mbappé (63’) pulled one back from the penalty spot after a foul by Tottenham’s Pedro Porro.
Yamal’s Second & France’s Incredible Comeback Attempt
Just when France thought they had a lifeline, Yamal struck again (72’) with a precise low drive to make it 5-1.
But what followed was one of the most dramatic comebacks in recent memory:
- Rayan Cherki (79’) – On his international debut, the Lyon wonderkid produced a moment of magic, flicking the ball up and volleying home from 20 yards. (5-2)
- Dani Vivian (84’ OG) – The Spanish defender inadvertently turned the ball into his own net under pressure. (5-3)
- Randal Kolo Muani (90+3’) – A late header from Cherki’s cross set up a grandstand finish. (5-4)
France threw everything forward in seven minutes of stoppage time, but Spain held firm to secure a nail-biting victory.
Key Talking Points
1. Lamine Yamal: The Next Superstar?
At just 17 years old, Yamal delivered a performance beyond his years:
- 2 goals (1 penalty, 1 composed finish)
- Constant threat with his dribbling and creativity
- Now a serious Ballon d’Or contender
His composure in big moments suggests he could become one of the best players in the world very soon.
2. France’s Defensive Woes
Despite their attacking firepower, France’s backline was exposed repeatedly:
- Rabiot’s clumsy foul for the penalty
- Lack of organization against Spain’s wingers
- Late rally showed spirit, but the damage was done
Didier Deschamps will need to fix these issues before Euro 2024.
3. Spain’s Attacking Evolution
Under Luis de la Fuente, Spain are playing with more directness and flair:
- Williams & Yamal terrorized France’s full-backs
- Pedri’s midfield mastery
- Still vulnerable defensively (5-4 scoreline proves it)
If they can tighten up at the back, they could be Euro 2024 favorites.
What’s Next?
- Final: Spain vs Portugal (Sunday, Munich) – A tantalizing Iberian derby for the trophy.
- Third-Place Playoff: France vs Germany (Stuttgart) – A chance for redemption for both teams.
Final Thoughts
This match had everything:
A teenage superstar announcing himself
A stunning collapse and near-comeback
Nine goals in a high-octane thriller
Spain will be delighted with the win but concerned about their late-game nerves. France, meanwhile, will wonder how they let it slip after such a poor start.
Who do you think will win the final? Spain or Portugal? Let us know in the comments!
