Spain advanced to the UEFA Nations League final in sensational fashion, edging France 5-4 in a dramatic semifinal filled with goals, drama, and emerging stars. In a match played with breathtaking intensity, 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal scored twice, helping Spain overcome a late French comeback to secure their place in Sunday’s final against Portugal in Munich.
Dominant First Half Gives Spain Early Control
Spain wasted no time asserting dominance, with Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams opening the scoring in the 9th minute. The 21-year-old, who has been linked with a move to Arsenal, capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot home the opener. Just 15 minutes later, Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino doubled the lead, heading in a pinpoint cross to put Spain 2-0 up within 25 minutes.
Spain thought they had added a third goal before halftime through Real Madrid’s new signing Dean Huijsen, who acrobatically found the net. However, the goal was ruled out for offside after Mikel Oyarzabal was judged to have interfered in the buildup.
Lamine Yamal Lights Up the Second Half
After the break, Spain turned on the style. Barcelona starlet Lamine Yamal, who continues to capture headlines across Europe, found the net just before the hour mark. A minute later, Pedri, also of Barcelona, made it 4-0 with a composed finish, seemingly putting the result beyond doubt.
France, who had been flat for much of the match, were handed a lifeline when Kylian Mbappe converted a penalty in the 72nd minute. But any hopes of a comeback appeared dashed moments later when Chelsea target Mike Maignan, currently with AC Milan, mishandled Yamal’s effort, allowing the teenager to score his second and put Spain 5-1 ahead.
Rayan Cherki Sparks Late France Comeback
Just as Spain looked certain to cruise into the final, France mounted a stunning late rally. Making his senior international debut, Rayan Cherki, a key transfer target for Manchester City, pulled one back with a spectacular volley from outside the box. His strike cut the deficit to 5-2 in the 79th minute and signaled a shift in momentum.
Within minutes, the French pressure paid off again. A low cross into the box led to Dani Vivian accidentally turning the ball into his own net, making it 5-3. The drama intensified in stoppage time when Cherki delivered a perfect cross that Randal Kolo Muani headed home to bring France within one.
Despite France’s furious push in the dying seconds, Spain managed to hold on, denying Didier Deschamps’ side a historic comeback and securing their spot in the Nations League final.
The standout performer of the night was undoubtedly Lamine Yamal. The teenager’s brace not only showcased his finishing ability but also his composure in high-pressure moments. With top European clubs continuing to monitor his progress, his performance against France is likely to further elevate his growing reputation.
Yamal’s versatility and pace on the wing, combined with his sharp decision-making, proved too much for the French defense, especially as they tired late in the match. His link-up play with Pedri and Nico Williams could become a central feature of Spain’s next generation.
Spain vs. Portugal Final Set for Sunday
With this victory, Spain now turns its attention to a blockbuster Nations League final showdown with Portugal, who secured their spot after a hard-fought semifinal win of their own. The final, scheduled for Sunday in Munich, promises to be a classic Iberian derby between two of Europe’s most talented squads.
Portugal will be led by the experience of players like Bruno Fernandes and Rúben Dias, while Spain will look to their youthful trio of Yamal, Williams, and Pedri to carry the momentum forward.
Spain’s thrilling 5-4 win over France will go down as one of the most exciting matches in Nations League history. With young stars rising to the occasion and veterans stepping up at crucial moments, Spain demonstrated both flair and resilience. As they prepare to face Portugal, one thing is certain: European football is witnessing the rise of a formidable new era for Spain.
