Lamine Yamal scored twice in a breathtaking performance as Spain defeated France 5-4 in one of the most thrilling matches in Nations League history, booking a spot in Sunday’s final against Portugal in Munich.
The 17-year-old Barcelona sensation, a rising Ballon d’Or contender, helped propel Spain into commanding 4-0 and 5-1 leads before France mounted a dramatic late comeback that fell just short in Stuttgart.
Spain’s Blistering Start
Spain struck early with goals from Nico Williams and Mikel Merino, before Yamal won a penalty after being fouled by Adrien Rabiot, calmly slotting it past Mike Maignan. Pedri added a fourth, finishing a sharp move from a Williams assist.
Although Kylian Mbappé pulled one back for France via a penalty, Yamal struck again with a low drive to make it 5-1, seemingly ending the contest.
France’s Late Fightback
But France, never out of the fight, came alive in the final stages. On his debut, Rayan Cherki scored a stunning volley from outside the box to make it 5-2, before Dani Vivian turned a cross into his own net.
In added time, Randal Kolo Muani headed home another Cherki assist to make it 5-4. France pushed for an equalizer but Spain held on to seal a famous win.
A Match to Remember
The game featured two recent Nations League champions — France (2021) and Spain (2023) — and delivered an instant classic filled with flair, chaos, and world-class talent.
Spain’s goalkeeper Unai Simón was crucial early on, making key saves from Desire Doué and Ousmane Dembélé, while Theo Hernandez struck the crossbar.
Once the dust settled, Yamal was crowned Player of the Match with a superb 8.6 average rating, further cementing his breakout year.
What’s Next?
- Final: Spain vs Portugal – Sunday in Munich
- Third-Place Playoff: France vs Germany – Sunday in Stuttgart
Player of the Match: Lamine Yamal 🇪🇸
Goals: Williams, Merino, Yamal (2), Pedri – Spain | Mbappé (P), Cherki, Vivian (OG), Kolo Muani – France
