In a thrilling UEFA Nations League semifinal held on June 5, 2025, at the Mercedes-Benz Arena in Stuttgart, Spain claimed a dramatic 5-4 victory over France. Despite a comfortable 5-1 lead in the second half, the Spanish team narrowly held on as France mounted a strong comeback.
Match timeline
First half:
- 12′: Nico Williams opened the scoring, finishing off a quick Spanish attack.
- 20′: Mikel Merino doubled the lead with a header from a corner.
- 28′: Lamine Yamal converted a penalty awarded for a foul on Pedri.
- 35′: Pedri added the fourth goal, finishing a move assisted by Yamal.
Second half:
- 50′: Lamine Yamal completed his brace, making it 5-1.
- 60′: Kylian Mbappé pulled one back for France with a penalty.
- 70′: Rayan Cherki scored France’s second goal.
- 80′: An own goal by Dani Vivian made it 5-3.
- 88′: Randal Kolo Muani added a fourth for France.
Despite intense pressure in the closing stages, Spain held on to secure the win and reach the final.
Match analysis
Spain:
Under Luis de la Fuente, Spain showcased attacking football with an emphasis on young talent. Lamine Yamal, the 17-year-old forward, emerged as the hero with two goals and an assist. Pedri and Mikel Merino controlled the midfield, while Nico Williams posed a threat on the flank.
France:
Didier Deschamps’ side struggled to contain Spain’s attack in the first half but showed character in the second. Kylian Mbappé, Rayan Cherki, and Randal Kolo Muani spearheaded a comeback that nearly succeeded.
Spain now advances to the UEFA Nations League final, where they will face Portugal. The match promises to be thrilling, with a clash between young star Lamine Yamal and the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo.
