⚽ Spain World Cup Favourites After Historic 5-4 Win Over France
In a footballing spectacle that felt more like a video game than real life, Spain outlasted France 5-4 in a Nations League semi-final classic, reinforcing their status as the top contenders for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With Lamine Yamal’s genius, offensive fireworks, and just enough resilience, Spain left fans in awe — and opponents worried.
🔥 Lamine Yamal: The Ballon d’Or-Bound Teen Prodigy
Still just 17, Lamine Yamal continues to dazzle the world. Scoring twice, including a calm penalty and a clinical finish, the Barcelona phenom now has 6 goals for Spain to go with 25 for his club. His name is already being whispered in Ballon d’Or circles.
“It’s hard to argue with the genius that you see before you,” said summariser Karen Bardsley.
Yamal wasn’t alone — Nico Williams, Pedri, Mikel Merino, and Oyarzabal all contributed with goals and assists in a spellbinding attacking display.
📊 Spain vs France: Nations League Semi-Final Key Stats
| Statistic | Spain | France |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 5 | 4 |
| Shots on Target | 9 | 8 |
| Total Shots | 17 | 23 |
| Possession | 54% | 46% |
| Pass Accuracy | 89% | 86% |
| Saves by Goalkeeper | 6 (Unai Simón) | 3 (Valiant effort) |
Despite leading 5-1 at one stage, Spain nearly squandered it — a sign that their defensive frailty could haunt them later in the tournament.
🧠 Why Spain Are World Cup Favourites
🔷 1. Dominant Attack
Spain are no longer just about possession — they are clinical and electric up front. With Yamal, Williams, and Pedri combining pace, creativity, and vision, goals can come from anywhere.
🔷 2. Youth and Energy
- Average age: Just 24
- Oldest player: 28
- Future-ready squad that plays with maturity beyond their years.
🔷 3. Winning Mentality
- Winners of Euro 2024
- Defending Nations League champions
- Headed to third straight final under Luis de la Fuente
🛑 Defensive Concerns: Can Spain Fix the Leak?
Let’s be clear — Spain’s defence looked shaky. Conceding 4 goals after going 5-1 up is alarming. Even coach De la Fuente admitted:
“I enjoy suffering… I don’t understand sport without suffering.”
Key lapses:
- Own goal by Dani Vivian
- Juventus defender Kalulu’s shaky debut
- Poor coordination on crosses
For all their attacking brilliance, this Spanish team needs better defensive organisation if they want to conquer the world next summer.
🇫🇷 France: Not All Doom and Gloom
France showed character in the final 20 minutes, with Mbappé, Dembele, Cherki, and Kolo Muani leading a near-historic comeback.
💫 Cherki’s Breakout
- One goal: A stunning volley
- One assist: Pinpoint cross for 5-4
“He showed why he’s linked to Liverpool and Man City.”
🚨 Defensive Woes for Les Bleus
- Debuts and rusty returns hurt cohesion
- Lack of communication in the backline
- Deschamps: “I’m not going to give up on this defence.”
🏁 What’s Next? Nations League Final & World Cup Countdown
Spain face Portugal in the Nations League Final this Sunday. A win would mean three major tournament victories in a row — a feat that would undeniably place them as the team to beat at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
🔍 FAQs
❓Why is Spain considered the World Cup favourite now?
Due to their recent international dominance (Euro 2024 + Nations League), youthful yet experienced squad, and explosive attacking talent led by Lamine Yamal.
❓Who scored for Spain vs France?
- Yamal (2)
- Mikel Merino
- Pedri
- Nico Williams (assists)
- Own goal contributed by France
❓What was the final score of Spain vs France?
Spain 5 – 4 France in the Nations League semi-final.
✨ Final Thoughts: Spain’s Golden Generation Rises Again
Spain are building something extraordinary — flair, discipline, and unshakable belief. Lamine Yamal’s rise is just the beginning of a new golden generation, one that’s more entertaining and lethal than their 2008–2012 dynasty.
Expect fireworks. Expect brilliance. Expect Spain to challenge for World Cup 2026 supremacy.
