Spain and France's tense layover in Stuttgart, en route to the third UEFA Nations League final
Game On: Spain vs France in UEFA Nations League Semi-Final
Are you ready for some top-notch football action? Spain squares off against France in the UEFA Nations League semis, set to take place in the MHP Arena, Stuttgart this Thursday at 9 PM. Both teams aim to secure a spot in Munich, but only one can make it to the ultimate showdown against Portugal.
A Rivalry RebornFrance, boasting two World Cup stars, presents a formidable challenge for Spain, with a slightly shaky record against them. Spain has the upper hand, claiming victory in the last encounter – the 2024 Euro semi-final – with a 2-1 scoreline. France, however, still holds the edge from their 2021 final win against Spain at the San Siro, Milan.
Stuttgart SensationSpain has good memories of Stuttgart, where they defeated Germany in the 2025 Nations League quarter-finals. But the 'Red' has bigger fish to fry – securing the third consecutive Nations League final and nabbing a second title.
Game of the Golden BallThe match has been touted as a duel between Ousmane Dembélé and Lamine Yamal for the coveted Golden Ball. Both players have been standouts in the recent Champions League and Euros. Mbappé and Fabián Ruiz are also in the running for the Golden Boot, but their teammates are rooting for 'the Mosquito' following his recent triumph with PSG.
Fresh FacesThe Spanish team will see the debut of Dean Huijsen, Samu Omorodion, and Isco Alarcón, while Desiré Doué and Rayan Cherki will make their mark in the French squad. The rivalry between the teams remains unchanged, with Spain counting their four European Championship titles and France flaunting two World Cup stars.
Lineups
Spain Lineup: predicted starters include Unai Simón, a defense spearheaded by José Gayà, a midfield featuring Pedri and Mikel Merino, with an attacking trio of Mikel Oyarzabal, Nico Williams, and Lamine Yamal.
France Lineup: Mike Maignan will be in goal, with defenders like Theo Hernández and Dayot Upamecano, a midfield featuring players like Adrien Rabiot, and an attack led by Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembele.
Let's Get This Game StartedGet ready for a thrilling match, as both teams come with their A-game. Keep an eye out for key moments and notable performances – this game could be a season highlight!
[Source: UEFA Nations League, ESPN FC, FourFourTwo]
The average number of goals scored by Ousmane Dembélé and Lamine Yamal per game in their recent performances has been noteworthy, showcasing their top form in sports like football. In the past, both France and Spain have produced intense encounters, with Spain winning their most recent match in the 2024 Euro semi-final, while France triumphed in the 2021 final.
