In a true goal spectacle, Spain defeated France 5‑4 in the UEFA Nations League semifinal, held on June 5, 2025, at the MHP Arena in Stuttgart. The triumph marks Spain’s third consecutive final in the competition an unprecedented feat and sets up a historic Iberian clash against Portugal. The victory highlights La Roja’s offensive firepower and showcases the talent of emerging stars, while exposing France’s intolerable defensive frailty.
🕒 First half: early pressure and Spanish dominance
Electrifying start
The match began evenly, with France exploiting the speed of Mbappé and Doué, while Spain responded through Nico Williams on the left and Yamal with quick incursions. In the 22nd minute, the goal fest began: after a brilliant team play, Williams received a pass from Mikel Oyarzabal and struck powerfully to open the scoring 1‑0.
Widening the lead
In the 25th minute, Mikel Merino made it 2‑0. Oyarzabal got the ball in midfield, exchanged passes with Merino, who cut through the defense and finished with precision. France reacted briefly with Doué and Dembélé forcing Unai Simón into action but Spain controlled the half.
⚽ Second half: goal avalanche and French reaction
Penalty and Spanish surge
At the 54th minute, Lamine Yamal was fouled by Rabiot inside the box. A penalty was awarded; Yamal converted coolly 3‑0. Just a minute later, in the 55th, Pedri scored the fourth after a collective play and an assist from Nico.
Immediate French response
At 59’, a penalty was awarded to France: Mbappé scored to make it 4‑1, but the celebration was short-lived. In the 67th minute, Yamal scored again with a mid-height shot, making it 5‑1, a moment that would later be highlighted in UEFA analysis.
Intense reaction from Les Bleus
At 79’, Rayan Cherki scored a stunning goal from 20 meters 5‑2. In the 84th, a Spanish own goal: after a long pass, Vivian misjudged the ball and scored against his own team 5‑3. In stoppage time (90+3’), Kolo Muani headed the ball into the net, cutting the lead to 5‑4 and leaving everything open until the final whistle.
📊 Impact and standings
- The victory secures Spain’s third straight UEFA Nations League final a record in the tournament’s history.
- France, despite the dramatic loss, showed character in their comeback, but their defensive issues remain glaring.
- Spain now chases the back-to-back title, while France will play for third place.
🧠 Tactical analysis: systems, strengths and weaknesses
Spain (4‑3‑3)
- High pressing and quick build-up: Oyarzabal and Williams created space, while Merino added muscle to the midfield.
- Explosive transitions: Yamal shined especially in the penalty and his second goal.
- Active full-backs: Cucurella and Porro provided consistent attacking support.
- Defensive gaps: vulnerable to aerial threats as shown in Cherki’s goal.
France (4‑2‑3‑1)
- Ambitious attacking shape, with Rabiot and Koné offering flexibility.
- Reliance on Mbappé: his penalty highlighted his impact, but lacked proper support.
- Inspired substitutions: Cherki and Gusto changed the rhythm, though the defense couldn’t hold.
- Collective errors: poorly defended counters, backline miscommunication.
🌟 Man of the Match: Lamine Yamal
At only 17 years old, Yamal was named “Man of the Match” by UEFA. The Spanish international, currently shining for Barcelona, scored two goals (one from the penalty spot, another in open play), had five shots on goal, and posed a constant threat to France’s defense.
- Age: 17 (turns 18 in July).
- Previously awarded “Young Player of the Tournament” at Euro 2024, with a goal voted best of the tournament.
- Also featured on UEFA’s official website as the game’s standout, thanks to his decisive impact and multiple key plays.
📅 Next match
- Spain will face Portugal in the UEFA Nations League final on Sunday, June 8, at the Allianz Arena, in Munich.
- France will play for third place against Germany, earlier that day in Stuttgart.
The match ended in a remarkable festival of goals, with Spain showing precision, boldness, and resilience even after the scare caused by France’s late surge. The game displayed Yamal’s emerging talent, La Roja’s tactical cohesion, and the fierce fightback of Les Bleus making it one of the most unforgettable nights in Nations League history. With this win, Spain reaffirms its footballing dominance, while France, though vulnerable, proves it can still rise under pressure.
