A sensational performance from Spain has seen them take a commanding 2-0 lead over France in their UEFA Nations League semi-final clash in Stuttgart, Germany on June 5, 2025. Goals from Nico Williams and Mikel Merino in quick succession during the first half have put La Roja in a strong position to advance to the final against Portugal.
The match, played at the MHPArena, began with both teams displaying attacking intent. France, spearheaded by the likes of Kylian Mbappé, initially looked dangerous, with Unai Simón, the Spanish goalkeeper, called into action on multiple occasions. A particularly close call saw Theo Hernandez strike the crossbar with a powerful left-footed shot from outside the box in the 12th minute.
However, Spain weathered the early pressure and began to assert themselves. In the 22nd minute, a brilliant team move, orchestrated by Mikel Oyarzabal, unlocked the French defense. Oyarzabal held off defenders before laying the ball off to Nico Williams, who finished with a precise left-footed shot past Mike Maignan in the French goal.
The Spanish celebrations had barely subsided when they struck again just three minutes later. Oyarzabal was once again the architect, playing a clever one-touch pass to release Mikel Merino through on goal. The Arsenal midfielder made no mistake, slotting the ball past Maignan to double Spain's advantage. Oyarzabal's contribution was immense, playing a major part in both goals.
France attempted to respond, with Mbappé testing Simón, but the Spanish goalkeeper remained resolute. A late first-half goal from Huijsen was disallowed for offside following a VAR review, further frustrating the French. The disallowed goal came about after Lamine Yamal lifted the ball into the box from a set play, finding Zubimendi who headed it to Huijsen, the defender finished with a left footed shot that beat Maignan, but VAR ruled otherwise.
The second half began with Spain immediately on the attack. Yamal played Oyarzabal through, but his shot was blocked, although the flag was up for offside in any case. Soon after, Williams surged into the box and was brought down by Rabiot, resulting in a penalty for Spain. The penalty decision was briefly reviewed by VAR for a potential offside against Yamal, but the original decision stood.
Adding to France's woes, Yamal received a yellow card in the 32nd minute for a late tackle on Doué, potentially putting him at risk of suspension for the final should Spain progress. Rabiot advanced down the left side of the area in the 19th minute, and had a shot with his left foot that unai simon did not need to worry about.
As the game heads into the final stages, Spain appears to be in control, blending youthful energy with experienced players. Their strong run of form, unbeaten since March 2023, continues. The winner of this match will face Portugal in the UEFA Nations League final.
