Spain 5–4 France: La Roja Edge Les Bleus in Nine-Goal Nations League Classic

Date: 5 June 2025

Venue: Stuttgart Arena, Germany

Final Score: Spain 5–4 France

In one of the most electrifying matches in UEFA Nations League history, Spain edged France 5–4 in Stuttgart to book a place in Sunday’s final against Portugal.

The clash was a goal-laden spectacle that saw Spain’s youthful flair rise above France’s late resurgence in a truly unforgettable semifinal.

First-Half Masterclass by La Roja

Spain burst out of the blocks, racing to a 4–0 lead within the first 35 minutes. Winger Nico Williams opened the scoring with a well-placed finish before Mikel Merino doubled the lead.

The standout performer, Lamine Yamal, dazzled with two quick goals—showcasing his composure and attacking maturity at just 17 years old.

France looked stunned and struggled to contain Spain’s high press and intricate passing play, heading into the break 4–1 down, having pulled one back through a Kylian Mbappé penalty.

France’s Furious Comeback Falls Short

Spain extended their lead to 5–1 early in the second half, thanks to a well-taken strike by Pedri. But France refused to surrender.

Goals from Rayan Cherki, a Dani Vivian own goal, and a stoppage-time header by Randal Kolo Muani sparked hope of an improbable comeback.

Despite their spirited surge, the clock ran out on Les Bleus as Spain held on to seal their place in the final.

Unai Simón’s Crucial Interventions

While Spain’s attack stole the spotlight, goalkeeper Unai Simón played a key role in preserving the win. His crucial stops, particularly late in the second half, were instrumental in staving off France’s rally.

Man of the Match: Lamine Yamal (Spain)

The 17-year-old Barcelona forward was named Man of the Match after scoring two brilliant goals and consistently terrorizing the French defense.

Yamal’s movement, intelligence, and poise on the ball belied his age, reinforcing his status as one of football’s most exciting young talents.

Next Stop: Munich Final

Spain will now face Portugal in the final on Sunday, June 8, at the Allianz Arena in Munich. La Roja will aim to defend their Nations League crown and lift the trophy for the second consecutive time.

Match Stats Snapshot

Goals: Spain (Williams 9’, Merino 17’, Yamal 22’, 33’, Pedri 48’)

France (Mbappé 41’ pen, Cherki 61’, Vivian OG 78’, Kolo Muani 90+3’)

Man of the Match: Lamine Yamal

Possession: Spain 56% – France 44%

Shots on Target: Spain 7 – France 6

It was a night of drama, goals, and a new chapter in Yamal’s burgeoning legend.