Spain Overcomes France in an Epic Match and Qualifies for the Nations League Final
In a match that will be etched in the memory of fans, Spain defeated France with a score of 5-4 in the Nations League semi-final. The match, played in Stuttgart, Germany, was a true festival of goals and emotions, with constant changes in the score and an offensive display by both teams.From the very first minutes, the intensity was palpable. France generated clear scoring opportunities, but was met with an inspired Unai Simón and the Spanish defense, which prevented the scoreboard from opening in their favor. However, the dynamics of the game changed drastically with Nico Williams’ goal, after a great play by Lamine Yamal, and subsequently, Mikel Merino’s goal, putting Spain in the lead.
The second half began with France seeking to equalize, but Spain, through a penalty converted by Lamine Yamal and a great goal by Pedri, extended their lead. Although Kylian Mbappé scored for France, Lamine Yamal scored again, seemingly sealing the match.
But France didn’t give up. Ryan Cherki scored a spectacular goal, followed by an own goal by Daniel Vivian and a goal by Randal Kolo Muani, which tightened the score in the final minutes. Despite the French reaction, time was not enough and Spain secured their place in the final.
The victory, although close, is a clear indication of Spain’s ability to compete at the highest level, and now they will face Portugal in the final, which promises to be another exciting duel.The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with moments of brilliance and suffering. The victory is deserved and gives us the opportunity to fight for the title.
Statements by Luis de la Fuente, Spain’s coach.
This match, with nine goals and numerous chances, will remain in football history. The game was full of twists and turns, with moments of jubilation and tension, demonstrating the passion and magic of the sport.
The Nations League final promises to be an unforgettable match, with Spain seeking the title against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal.
Match Technical Sheet
Spain: Unai Simón; Pedro Porro, Le Normand (Vivian, m.77), Huijsen, Cucurella; Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, Pedri (Fabián, m.64); Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams (Dani Olmo, m.64) and Oyarzabal (Samu, m.77).
France: Maignan; Kalulu (Gusto, m.63), Konaté, Lenglet (Lucas Hernández, m.72), Theo Hernandez; Rabiot, Koné; Olise (Cherki, m.63), Dembélé (Kolo Muani, m.76), Doué (Barcola, m.63); and Mbappé.
Goals: 1-0, m.2: Nico Williams. 2-0, m.25: Mikel Merino. 3-0, m.54: Lamine Yamal from penalty. 4-0, m.55: Pedri. 4-1, m.59: Mbappé. 5-1, m.67: Lamine Yamal. 5-2, m.79: Cherki. 5-3, m.84: Vivian own goal. 5-4, m.94: Kolo Muani.
Referee: Michael Oliver (ENG). Booked Yamal (33) for Spain; and Rabiot (52), Theo (82) and Kolo Muani (94) for France.
Incidents: Second semi-final of the Nations League, played at the Stuttgart Arena before 60,000 spectators, with 8,000 Spanish supporters in the stands.
