Spain came from behind to claim an exciting 5-4 win over France in the UEFA Nations League semi-final on June 5, 2025, at Stuttgart’s MHP Arena. The free-scoring encounter, with Lamine Yamal providing two goals, demonstrated Spain’s attacking prowess. The 2023 title-winners now take on Portugal in the final on June 8 at Munich’s Allianz Arena with the objective of becoming the first team to win back-to-back Nations League titles
Spain’s win over France in the semi-final was a show of their attacking ability, and 17-year-old Lamine Yamal put on a Ballon d’Or-worthy performance. Barcelona sensation Yamal scored twice, with a penalty in the 53rd minute, and was a constant threat. Firstly, Nico Williams opened the scoring with a powerful finish in the 22nd minute. Subsequently, Mikel Merino added a second goal three minutes later, assisted by Mikel Oyarzabal. Furthermore, Pedri scored a brilliant fourth in the 55th minute, securing Spain’s commanding 4-0 lead.France’s late-chip effort, with goals from Kylian Mbappe, Rayan Cherki, and Randal Kolo Muani, was not sufficient to discredit Spain.
UEFA’s Technical Observer Group praised Yamal for playing with maturity beyond his age, saying, “He was a constant threat in attack, playing with unbelievable maturity for his age.” The nine goals scored in the game made Nations League history, thrilling spectators at Stuttgart Arena.
France’s Bungling Comeback Fails to Materialize
France, the 2021 Nations League champions, fought back from 4-0 down. Mbappé scored in the 59th minute. Yamal added Spain’s fifth. Cherki’s 20-meter strike and Vivian’s own goal cut the deficit. Kolo Muani’s stoppage-time header made it 5-4. Spain’s Unai Simon stood firm. France’s fatigue from the Champions League final hurt, with Dembele underperforming. Deschamps rued missed chances. France faces Germany in the third-place play-off. Spain advances confidently.
Spain’s Road to Historic Title Defense
Spain’s victory sets up a box office finale against Portugal, who defeated hosts Germany 2-1, Cristiano Ronaldo netting the winner. Spain, led by Luis de la Fuente, are unbeaten in nine away Nations League games and aim to defend their 2023 title, won via a penalty shootout against Croatia, after Euro 2024 success. A June 8 victory would make Spain the first repeat Nations League champion, boosting their 2026 World Cup prospects. X posts praised Yamal and Pedri’s efforts. The Allianz Arena final pits Spain’s young stars against Portugal’s Ronaldo and Ramos.
Implications for European Football
Spain’s qualification to the final reiterates the fact that they are the strongest team in Europe, having lost only one game since de la Fuente was appointed over two years ago. Addition of younger players like Yamal and Pedri, along with experienced players like Alvaro Morata, indicates a bright future. The high-scoring semi-final illustrates the role of the Nations League in replacing friendlies with competitive, thrilling matches.
For France, the defeat calls into question the reign of Deschamps, with X tweeting it could be his “last dance.” The Portugal v France final on RTVE and UEFA.tv will see world viewership, with stakes for Ballon d’Or contests and World Cup build-up. With Germany hosting the finals, the tournament success in Munich and Stuttgart secures its growing reputation in European football. Audiences can see the live end of the game on UEFA’s broadcast partners.
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