Spain survived a dramatic late surge from France to secure a thrilling 5-4 victory and book their spot in the 2024/2025 UEFA Nations League final on Thursday night in Germany.
Luis de la Fuente’s side looked to be cruising to a convincing win after racing to a commanding 4-0 and later 5-1 lead.
However, France mounted a spirited comeback in the closing stages, falling just short of forcing extra time.
Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal continued his stellar form against Les Bleus, replicating his Euro 2024 performance with a brace in Thursday’s semi-final.
The scoring began in the 23rd minute when Nico Williams fired Spain in front, and just two minutes later, Mikel Merino doubled the advantage.
Spain returned from the break with the same intensity. Yamal slotted home a penalty in the 54th minute to make it 3-0, before Pedri found the net a minute later for Spain’s fourth.
France responded through their captain Kylian Mbappe, who converted from the spot in the 59th minute to pull one back.
Spain’s relentless attack paid off again in the 67th minute as Yamal grabbed his second of the night and his side’s fifth goal.
Didier Deschamps’ men refused to go down quietly. Substitute Rayan Cherki reduced the deficit to 5-2 in the 79th minute, and a Dani Vivian own goal made it 5-3.
Randal Kolo-Muani added more tension with a stoppage-time goal in the 93rd minute, but Spain managed to see out the win.
Spain now prepares to defend their Nations League crown in the final against Portugal, who edged hosts Germany 2-1 earlier on, thanks to a comeback capped by a Cristiano Ronaldo winner.
The showdown is set for Sunday, June 8.
