By Martin Graham
Spain and France played out an unforgettable Nations League semi-final that ended 5-4 in favor of La Roja. The dramatic encounter felt more like the scoreline of a penalty shootout than a regular match, with relentless attacking football and shaky defending from both sides.
Luis de la Fuente’s side are now preparing to face Portugal in Sunday’s final, with hopes of sealing a third consecutive UEFA tournament triumph, following their Euro 2024 and previous Nations League victories. After this showing, they remain the favorites heading into next summer’s World Cup, with France considered the second-strongest contender.
The nine-goal encounter saw Spain surge to a 4-0 and then 5-1 lead before France launched a late comeback. The match featured 40 total shots, 17 of them on target, and served as a showcase for attacking brilliance. Mikel Merino described the contest as “a crazy game,” noting it was entertaining for fans if not ideal for coaching staff. His coach, however, seemed to embrace the tension, saying, “I enjoy suffering! I don’t understand sport without suffering.”
The match began at breakneck speed with Mikel Oyarzabal assisting Nico Williams for the opener and then setting up Merino minutes later. Dean Huijsen nearly added a third with a spectacular goal from a set piece, only for it to be chalked off for offside.
Shortly after the restart, Lamine Yamal won and converted a penalty. Williams then assisted Pedri to make it four before Kylian Mbappé pulled one back from the spot. Yamal restored the four-goal advantage with a composed finish to make it 5-1, his second of the game. The teenager now has six international goals and 25 for Barcelona, confirming his rising status in world football.
Yamal outshone France’s Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué, who had entered the game with significant hype. While Dembélé did hit the post, it was Rayan Cherki, making his debut, who led the French revival. The Lyon forward scored with a volley and later delivered a perfect cross for Randal Kolo Muani to head in the fourth. In between, Dani Vivian turned a cross into his own net, closing the gap to a single goal. Despite their pressure, France could not find the equalizer in the final moments.
Spain’s overall performance reflected their typical style – energetic wide play, creativity in midfield, and a youthful core. Yamal and Williams were constant threats, while Merino, Pedri, and Oyarzabal also made significant contributions. With an average age of just 24, the future remains bright for this team.
However, their backline allowed four goals and nearly let a commanding lead slip. Goalkeeper Unai Simón was called into action six times, highlighting the defensive fragility. Yamal acknowledged the ups and downs, saying, “They will make you suffer until the end but we went to the final despite the mistakes we made.”
Journalist Guillem Balagué praised the blend of artistry and structure in the Spanish side. He noted that while the team relaxed toward the end, their confidence and skill kept them on course. “Winning seems to be a habit,” he said.
France had moments of real quality despite being outplayed for large stretches. They created more chances than Spain in both halves and kept Unai Simón busy. Mbappé admitted the team lacked consistency, conceding twice in short spells during each half. However, he was optimistic, stating, “It’s not all negative.”
Cherki stood out after coming off the bench, scoring a memorable goal and assisting another. Doué went close and Dembélé was unlucky not to score. Yet, defensively, France struggled. Pierre Kalulu, who debuted on his 25th birthday, and Clément Lenglet, in his first appearance since 2021, had difficult outings.
Didier Deschamps defended his backline, citing unfamiliarity and rotation as factors. “I’m not going to give up on this defence,” he insisted. While Spain’s finishing was lethal, France’s own attacking threats showed they remain a serious force – despite the outcome.
