In a breathtaking nine-goal spectacle, Spain delivered a masterclass to defeat France 5-4 in the Nations League semifinal, securing a showdown with Portugal in Sunday’s final in Munich. The match, played at a pulsating Mercedes-Benz Arena, showcased the brilliance of 17-year-old Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal, who scored twice and solidified his case as a Ballon d’Or contender.
Spain dominated early, racing to a 2-0 lead with goals from Nico Williams and Mikel Merino. Yamal, a rising star in global football, then earned a penalty after being fouled by France’s Adrien Rabiot. With composure beyond his years, he sent goalkeeper Mike Maignan the wrong way from the spot to make it 3-0. Pedri extended Spain’s lead to 4-0, finishing clinically after a precise pass from Williams, leaving France on the ropes.
France responded before halftime when Kylian Mbappé converted a penalty following a foul by Tottenham’s Pedro Porro. Yet, Spain’s dominance persisted as Yamal struck again, firing a low shot past Maignan to restore the four-goal cushion at 5-1. At that point, the match seemed decided.
However, France mounted a dramatic late comeback that nearly forced extra time. Substitute Rayan Cherki, making his international debut, ignited the rally with a stunning 20-yard volley in the 79th minute, set up by Mbappé, to make it 5-2. The momentum shifted further when Spanish defender Dani Vivian inadvertently turned the ball into his own net with six minutes remaining, reducing the deficit to 5-3. In the third minute of stoppage time, Randal Kolo Muani headed in a Cherki cross, bringing France within one goal at 5-4. Despite their frantic efforts, France couldn’t find an equalizer, and Spain held firm.
The victory sets up an eagerly anticipated final against Portugal, while France will face Germany in the third-place play-off in Stuttgart.