It would be an understatement to call it just a thriller this was a match that felt like an entire highlight reel from start to finish. In a UEFA Nations League semifinal clash Spain vs France delivered one of the most memorable games in recent history. Spain led 4-0 by the 55th minute, stunning even the most optimistic of fans, especially considering their opponent was none other than two-time world champions France.
France made a bold move by bringing on Kylian Mbappé in the 59th minute, and what followed was an electric chain of events. France responded with four quick goals, while Spain added another in between. In total, nine goals were scored in a match that showcased breathtaking intensity, drama, and world-class talent. Ultimately, Spain edged out France with a thrilling 5-4 victory and secured their place in the Nations League final.
Awaiting Spain in the final is Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal, who had earlier beaten Germany. This marks the third consecutive UEFA Nations League final appearance for Spain, solidifying their consistency and strength in the tournament. However, the true star of the night was 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal, who put in a dazzling performance that may well reshape the Ballon d’Or race.
Lamine Yamal scored twice his brace proving crucial in sending Spain through. The young Barcelona forward converted a composed penalty in the 54th minute and followed it up with a brilliant solo goal in the 67th. His performance was not only instrumental in the victory but also symbolic of a new generation taking over European football.
Spain vs France (5-4)
On the opposite side, PSG stars Ousmane Dembélé and Bradley Barcola, fresh off a UEFA Champions League win against Inter Milan, were expected to shine. But it was Yamal who stole the spotlight. In many ways, this semifinal wasn’t just about a spot in the final it was a stage for young contenders fighting to carve their names into football history and into the Ballon d’Or shortlist.
The game began at the MHP Arena in Stuttgart, Germany, with Spain taking early control. Nico Williams broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute, followed by a goal from Mikel Merino just three minutes later. Spain went into halftime with a comfortable 2-0 lead.
Early in the second half, Yamal extended the lead to 3-0 from the penalty spot. A minute later, Pedri made it 4-0 with a well-timed strike. But the game took a dramatic turn from there. France pulled one back almost immediately—Mbappé scored from the penalty spot in the 59th minute, signaling France’s intent to fight.
Though Yamal’s second goal restored Spain’s three-goal cushion at 5-1 in the 67th minute, France wasn’t done yet. Rayan Cherki scored in the 79th minute to make it 5-2. An own goal from Dani Vivian in the 84th minute added more tension, and Randal Kolo Muani scored another in stoppage time (90+3 minutes), making it 5-4.
Despite the late push, France ran out of time. Spain held on and advanced. After the match, Yamal reflected emotionally: “I always tell my mother I’ll try to give my best. That’s what motivates me every day.” Speaking about France, he added, “They have world-class players who make you suffer. The scoreline was big, but against them, you can never relax.”
Looking ahead to the final, Yamal said, “Spain and Portugal both have world-class players. The better team will win. I hope to bring the trophy home to Spain.”