Spain’s thrilling 5-4 victory over France in the Nations League semi-final was a spectacle packed with excitement, drama, and standout performances most notably from 17-year-old Lamine Yamal. The match, held in Munich, set up a highly anticipated final against Portugal, with Spain defending their title in a contest that delivered goals, skill, and tension from start to finish.
From the outset, the game was electric and fast-paced, a relentless battle where both teams attacked with purpose and frequency. France, despite being under pressure, managed 24 of the 40 shots, reflecting their persistent threat throughout the game. Yet Spain seized the initiative early, with Nico Williams opening the scoring in a move that demonstrated Spain’s slick, coordinated attacking play. Williams danced past defenders to unleash a powerful strike into the roof of the net, setting the tone for what was to come.
Spain quickly doubled their lead thanks to Mikel Merino’s composed finish after a fluid sequence involving Mikel Oyarzabal and Merino himself. The interplay among the Spanish midfield and forwards was a joy to watchprecise, quick, and creative. Pedri, with his almost otherworldly ease on the ball, was central to this dominance, controlling the tempo and threading passes with subtle brilliance.
Then came the moment everyone was waiting for: Lamine Yamal’s emergence as a game-changer. The teenage prodigy not only scored twice but was a constant menace every time he touched the ball. His vision, speed, and composure belied his age. The first goal was a penalty, calmly converted after a clumsy challenge on him by Adrien Rabiot, followed by a composed finish after a slick volleyed layoff from Pedro Porro. His contribution was more than just goals it was his presence and confidence that lifted Spain.
Spain’s lead seemed insurmountable at 5-1 after 67 minutes, thanks to goals from Nico Williams, Mikel Merino, Pedri, and two from Yamal. But France was far from done. The game turned wildly dramatic in the final 20 minutes, with France mounting a fierce fightback. Rayan Cherki unleashed a spectacular volley, bringing hope to the French side, and an own goal from Dani Vivian compounded Spain’s defensive woes.
The tension ratcheted up further as Randal Kolo Muani’s late header narrowed the gap to 5-4, keeping France’s hopes alive until the dying moments. This flurry of goals transformed what had looked like a one-sided match into a nail-biting thriller. Both goalkeepers, Unai Simón and Mike Maignan, were kept busy, making crucial saves as each team traded attacks.
Spain’s early dominance, characterized by quick transitions and sharp passing, was impressive. Lamine Yamal’s sharpness and creativity, combined with the steady influence of Pedri and the finishing prowess of Nico Williams and Merino, made this a team performance filled with individual brilliance. Yet the match also highlighted some defensive vulnerabilities for Spain, which France tried to exploit relentlessly in the closing stages.
Ultimately, Spain’s attacking mastery proved just enough to edge past a resilient French side. The 17-year-old sensation’s dazzling display was a clear statement: he’s not just a rising star but already among the best talents in Europe. This victory sends Spain into the Nations League final full of confidence, promising more thrilling football to come.
