Spain Survives French Fightback in 5-4 Thriller to Reach Nations League Final

MUNICH — In a match that will be remembered for its relentless drama, Spain held off a stunning late France comeback to secure a 5-4 victory in the Nations League semifinal, booking their place in Sunday’s final against Portugal.

Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal (16) delivered a brace, further cementing his status as one of football’s brightest young stars, while Nico Williams, Mikel Merino, and Pedri also found the net in a chaotic, end-to-end encounter.

First-Half Dominance Sets the Tone

Spain wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Nico Williams breaking the deadlock in the 22nd minute with a thunderous strike past Mike Maignan. Just three minutes later, Mikel Merino doubled the lead with a precise low drive, leaving France shell-shocked.

Despite early pressure from Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, France struggled to break down Spain’s compact defense. Theo Hernández rattled the crossbar with a long-range effort, a moment that could have changed the game’s trajectory.

Yamal & Pedri Extend Lead Before French Fightback

The second half began with Yamal converting a penalty (54’) after a handball by Jules Koundé. A minute later, Pedri made it 4-0, seemingly putting the game beyond doubt.

But France, led by Mbappé, refused to surrender. The captain pulled one back from the spot (59’) after a foul by Aymeric Laporte, sparking hope.

Rayan Cherki then produced a sensational volley (79’) before an own goal by Dani Vivian (84’) set up a nervy finale. Randal Kolo Muani’s stoppage-time strike made it 5-4, but Spain held firm to secure the win.

Key Talking Points

✔ Yamal vs. Dembélé: The much-hyped duel between Barcelona’s Yamal and PSG’s Dembélé tilted in the teenager’s favor, with the French winger unable to replicate his midweek Champions League heroics.

✔ Mbappé’s Leadership: Despite the loss, Mbappé showed why he remains France’s talisman, constantly threatening Spain’s backline.

✔ Defensive Lapses: Both teams’ defensive frailties were exposed, raising questions ahead of their next matches.

Final Showdown: Spain vs. Portugal

Spain will now face Portugal in Sunday’s final in Munich, setting up a generational clash between 17-year-old Yamal and 40-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored the winner against Germany.

Meanwhile, France will play Germany in the third-place playoff in Stuttgart.