Spain vs. France: UEFA Nations League Semifinal Preview

Following Portugal`s 2-1 victory over Germany in the first semifinal of the 2025 UEFA Nations League, France is set to face Spain on Thursday in the other semifinal. The winner of this match will advance to play Portugal on Sunday at the Allianz Arena in Munich.

France will feature several key players who were part of PSG`s triumph against Inter in the Champions League final last week. Meanwhile, Spain aims to defend their Nations League title, having won the previous edition of the tournament.

How to Watch Spain vs. France

Last Meeting

Spain and France previously met in a dramatic 2-1 semifinal during the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament in July 2024. Luis de la Fuente`s Spanish side secured a comeback victory with goals from Dani Olmo and Lamine Yamal, after France had opened the scoring through Randal Kolo Muani. This win propelled Spain to the Euro 2024 final, where they defeated England to claim the trophy.

Best Bets

Kylian Mbappe to score +220 — Despite a challenging campaign with Real Madrid, Mbappe had a productive debut season for the club, scoring 31 goals in 34 league appearances under former coach Carlo Ancelotti. Ahead of the new era under Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid, Mbappe will be looking to lift silverware with his national team this season.

Predicted Lineups

Spain XI: Unai Simon; Oscar Mingueza, Pau Cubarsi, Dean Huijsen, Marc Cucurella; Pedri, Fabian Ruiz; Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Nico Williams; Alvaro Morata.

France XI: Mike Maignan; Pierre Kalulu, Ibrahima Konate, Clement Lenglet, Theo Hernandez; Kone, Adrien Rabiot; Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, Desire Doue; Kylian Mbappe.

Player to Watch

Lamine Yamal, Spain — The young Spanish star has had a phenomenal season with Barcelona. Having played a key role in Spain`s Euro 2024 victory, he aims to help his country secure another trophy before the upcoming club season. Spain national team manager Luis de la Fuente commented on Yamal`s potential: “Lamine’s trajectory in the future is going to be great. But it’s our responsibility to take care of all the little details that are even more important than footballing ability. He’s going to have a fantastic future. If he keeps progressing like this, he could be a footballing legend.”

Prediction

Some French national team players might still be feeling the effects of celebrating PSG`s Champions League win last week. This factor could give Spain a slight advantage and increase their chances of facing Portugal in the final on Sunday.