Lamine Yamal (center) has scored six goals for Spain, with one more match remaining before his 18th birthday.
Spain and France contested a thrilling Nations League semi-final, resulting in a scoreline reminiscent of a penalty shootout.
Spain’s 5-4 victory leaves observers questioning whether any team can contain their potent attack, though their defensive vulnerabilities are undeniable.
Spain, facing Portugal in Sunday’s final, aims for a third consecutive UEFA tournament triumph, following Nations League and Euro 2024 victories.
They are considered World Cup favorites next summer, with France a close second.
Spain’s performance showcased their formidable attacking capabilities in one of the most exciting international matches in recent memory.
A total of 40 shots, 17 on target, and nine goals were registered. Spain held leads of 4-0 and 5-1, before France mounted a spirited comeback.
One could only wish every match were so captivating.
“It was a crazy game,” commented Spanish goalscorer Mikel Merino. “Not ideal for the coaches—no one wants to concede that many goals—but amazing for the fans.”
His manager, Luis de la Fuente, appeared to hold a contrasting perspective.
“I’m happy. I enjoy suffering! I don’t understand sport without suffering,” he stated.
“When two great teams clash, it’s natural for both to capitalize on their opportunities.”
Lamine Yamal, who turns 18 later this summer, scored twice, solidifying his Ballon d’Or contender status.
His tally now stands at six international goals, complementing his 25 for Barcelona.
Yamal’s performance eclipsed that of France’s PSG stars, Ousmane Dembele and Warren Zaire-Emery, despite their impressive club seasons.
Les Bleus debutant Rayan Cherki ignited France’s resurgence from the bench, further fueling speculation linking him to Liverpool and Manchester City.
Yamal shines as Spain edges France in nine-goal thriller
Ballon d’Or hopefuls clash: Yamal vs. Dembele in Nations League
A comprehensive account of the match’s events would be extensive, but here’s a summary.
Mikel Oyarzabal assisted Nico Williams for Spain’s opener, before setting up Merino four minutes later.
A potential 3-0 lead was thwarted when Dean Huijsen’s goal was disallowed for offside following a spectacular free-kick sequence.
“That belongs in a museum,” remarked Prime Video commentator Karen Bardsley.
After the break, Yamal converted a penalty following a foul, and Williams assisted Pedri for Spain’s fourth.
Kylian Mbappé scored a penalty, but Yamal added his second with a skillful finish.
“It’s hard to argue with the genius you see before you,” Bardsley commented on Yamal’s second goal.
Despite leading 5-1, France rallied.
Dembele struck the post, before Cherki’s volley from outside the box and Dani Vivian’s own goal, followed by Randal Kolo Muani’s header reduced the deficit.
However, France failed to create another chance in the closing stages to force extra time.
For 75 minutes, Spain appeared poised to dominate, solidifying their status as all-around favorites.
Their Euro 2024 performance demonstrated their prowess, and they show no signs of slowing down.
Wingers Yamal—who continues to impress—and Williams were electrifying. Midfielders Merino and Pedri scored, and Oyarzabal provided two assists.
Their oldest player was 28, with an average age of 24.
Nevertheless, concerns remain about a defense that conceded four goals and a team that almost squandered a 5-1 lead.
Yamal stated: “When two great teams play, you sometimes see many goals. They made us suffer, but we reached the final despite our mistakes.”
Unai Simón made six saves, highlighting that France’s scoring efficiency wasn’t flawless.
“That was a typical Spain performance,” observed Spanish journalist Guillem Balague.
“These players take the field believing they can beat anyone.
“The interesting aspect is their success, creating magic within a structure.
“Spain’s playing style reflects a contemporary model. These players are not only intelligent and creative but also highly committed, working tirelessly to regain possession.
“Even though Spain relaxed at the end, that confidence stems from their winning habits.
“With exceptional players across the pitch, Spain’s captivating style and winning streak are attracting global attention.”
Kylian Mbappé plays club football for Paris Saint-Germain.
France’s attack was undeniably potent.
Even while trailing significantly, they created numerous opportunities.
They outshot Spain in both halves and registered more shots on target overall.
Mbappé, speaking to RTVE, stated: “We had bursts of play we haven’t seen in a while. But in just 10 minutes of the first half, we conceded two goals—and the same happened in the second.
“We lacked consistency, but we improved. It’s not entirely negative.”
PSG’s Doue had scoring chances, Dembele hit the post, and Mbappé created opportunities before scoring his penalty.
However, Lyon’s 21-year-old Cherki significantly impacted the game upon his introduction. His stunning volley was arguably the match’s highlight, and his cross to Kolo Muani almost forced extra time.
Yet, like Spain, France’s defensive frailties were evident. Juventus full-back Pierre Kalulu, making his debut, and Clement Lenglet struggled.
“I’m not here to assign blame, but I have a backline accustomed to playing together,” commented manager Didier Deschamps.
“Finding a new combination presented challenges. I won’t abandon this defense. There were mitigating factors. But Spain’s efficiency is remarkable. We scored goals too.”
Sulaimon Adelekan: This young Spanish team is exceptional; they could dominate world football for the next six years with Yamal, Pedri, Gavi, and Nico Williams yet to reach their peak. They are dismantling France.
Victor: At this rate, this Spanish team will easily win the next World Cup. There’s no need to travel to the USA.
Robbie: Spain is currently the world’s best team, and it’s not even close.
Nick: Spain might be the world’s best team, but a full-strength Germany (missing Rüdiger, Musiala, and Havertz) is close—they were the only team to genuinely challenge Spain at the Euros—and Argentina remains strong. I believe France will be formidable at the next World Cup—they just need to solidify their best XI, given their wealth of talent!
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