By Ebenezer Mabinuola
In a stunning UEFA Nations League semifinal, Spain edged out France 5–4 in one of the most dramatic matches the tournament has ever seen.
The Spaniards surged into a 4–0 lead with clinical goals from Nico Williams, Mikel Merino, Pedri, and a composed penalty by 17-year-old Lamine Yamal, who would go on to be named Man of the Match. Dominant for the first hour, Spain appeared in total control.
But France launched a breathtaking response. Kylian Mbappé converted from the spot, Rayan Cherki finished smartly, and a Dani Vivian own goal narrowed the deficit. In stoppage time, Randal Kolo Muani headed in an equalizer to cap an extraordinary comeback.
Just when extra time seemed inevitable, Yamal struck again — his second goal sealing the win in a match now recorded as the highest-scoring in Nations League history. Remarkably, it also marked the first time since 1969 that France conceded five goals in a single international match.
After the match, Yamal expressed his determination to help Spain win the title, while coach Luis de la Fuente praised his team’s unity and hunger. Spain now face Portugal in the final on June 8 in Munich, with momentum and belief firmly on their side.
