Spain and France played out a Nations League semi-final game for the ages with a scoreline that looks like it belongs in a penalty shootout.
The 5-4 win for Spain has everyone wondering if anyone can stop these attackers – although the less said about the defenders, the better.
Spain, who play Portugal in Sunday’s final, are looking for a third Uefa tournament success in a row having won the last Nations League and Euro 2024.
And they are favourites for the World Cup coming up next summer, with France second on the list.
Spain showed why they will be tough to stop after one of the most exciting international games in memory.
A total of 40 shots, 17 on target, nine goals. Spain led 4-0 and 5-1 – and threatened to blow France away – before their rivals rallied.
If only every match was like this.
“It was a crazy game,” said Spain goalscorer Mikel Merino. “Not the best game for the coaches – nobody wants to concede so many goals – but an amazing game for the fans.”
His boss Luis de la Fuente seemed to actually disagree with him.
“I’m happy. I enjoy suffering! I don’t understand sport without suffering,” he said.
“When two great teams face off like today, it’s normal every team makes the most of their moments.”
Lamine Yamal, who turns 18 later this summer, netted twice for Spain to cement his credentials as a Ballon d’Or contender.
He is up to six goals for his country now, to add to 25 for club side Barcelona.
Yamal impressed more than France’s PSG stars – Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue – who were hyped up pre-game after phenomenal club seasons.
Les Bleus debutant Rayan Cherki help spark France’s fightback after coming off the bench to show why he is being linked to Liverpool and Manchester City.
(Source)