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Nations League 2025

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France Secures Third Place in UEFA Nations League with Victory Over Germany

France defeated Germany 2-0 to claim third place in the UEFA Nations League.

Key Points

  • Kylian Mbappé scored his 50th goal and assisted the second goal.
  • Mike Maignan's crucial saves helped secure the victory.
  • France's performance was criticized for being poor, especially in the first half.
  • The match is a morale boost ahead of the World Cup qualifiers.
The French national football team achieved a 2-0 victory over Germany in the third-place match of the UEFA Nations League held on June 8, 2025, in Stuttgart. Kylian Mbappé played a crucial role in the win, scoring the opening goal just before halftime, which marked his 50th international goal in 90 appearances. His performance also included an assist to Michael Olise, who sealed the victory with a second goal in the 84th minute.

Despite the final score, the French team faced criticism for a lackluster performance, especially in the first half where they struggled defensively, facing ten shots from Germany while only managing two of their own. France's goalkeeper, Mike Maignan, proved vital to their success by making a series of critical saves that maintained the team's lead and preserved a clean sheet. Notably, he saved a penalty appeal from Germany, which was overturned after a VAR check revealed Karim Adeyemi's simulation.

Coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged the mixed quality of play, stating, “There were few lessons to be learned from this match,” given the context of a long season and multiple player absences. Nevertheless, the victory served as a morale boost following a disappointing 5-4 loss to Spain in the semi-finals. The match concluded with France claiming third place in the tournament, while the final match will see Spain face Portugal.

With this win, France is now turning its attention to the upcoming World Cup 2026 qualifiers, which are set to begin in September against teams including Ukraine, Iceland, and Azerbaijan. The match also featured notable performances from debutant Loïc Badé and other players including Malo Gusto, who received praise for their contributions on the field.

Sources (5)

Sports

France and Spain Clash in Nations League Semi-Final with Record Support

France meets Spain in a high-stakes Nations League semi-final, backed by record crowd support.

Key Points

  • The match is a rematch of Euro 2024 semi-finals where France lost to Spain.
  • 17,000 French supporters are expected in Stuttgart, a record turnout for an away game.
  • France's lineup features key players like Mbappé and Maignan, with notable absences due to injury.
  • Spain aims to defend its title as the 2023 Nations League champions.
On June 5, 2025, the French national football team is set to face off against Spain in the highly anticipated semi-final of the UEFA Nations League at the MHPArena in Stuttgart, Germany, with kick-off scheduled for 21:00 CET. This match not only serves as a rematch of their Euro 2024 semi-final defeat but is also pivotal as both sides aim for a spot in the final against Portugal on June 8, 2025.

The French squad, managed by Didier Deschamps, is wearing their traditional white kit. They will feature notable players such as goalkeeper Mike Maignan, defenders Pierre Kalulu and Clément Lenglet, and forward Kylian Mbappé, who leads the team in hopes of securing a win after last year's setback. Due to injuries, France will be without key defenders William Saliba, Jules Koundé, and Dayot Upamecano, presenting a significant challenge for Deschamps, who expressed confidence in his remaining squad members despite these absences (Sources: 3113, 3118).

On the opposing side, Spain, led by coach Luis de la Fuente, is fielding a young and dynamic lineup, including teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who is expected to be a highlight in the match, along with experienced players such as goalkeeper Unai Simón and midfielder Fabian Ruiz. Spain enters this match as the defending champions of the Nations League, having won the title in 2023 (Sources: 3113, 3114).

Adding to the excitement, this match has drawn the attention of a record-breaking 17,000 French supporters travelling to Stuttgart, marking the largest away crowd for the French national team in over two decades. The atmosphere is electric as fans gather throughout the city, showcasing their passion and anticipation for the upcoming clash. Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation, actively engaged with fans, underscoring the strong support for the team (Sources: 3119, 3116).

As fans gear up for this intense showdown, the narratives surrounding players like Mbappé, Dembélé, and Yamal further intensify the competition, not just for the semi-final but also in terms of potential Ballon d'Or accolades this year. Supporters on both sides are set to witness an electrifying match that promises not only high stakes but also an insight into the future of European football rivalry (Sources: 3118, 3113, 3116).

The outcome of this match will determine which nation advances to the Nations League final, while the loser will face Germany in a consolation match.

Sources (5)

Sports

France Prepares for UEFA Nations League Semi-Final Against Spain

France is set to face Spain in a critical UEFA Nations League semi-final match.

Key Points

  • The UEFA Nations League semi-final is a rematch of the Euro semi-finals where Spain triumphed.
  • Spain, as reigning champions, will likely utilize a 4-3-3 formation.
  • France, dealing with key player absences, is expected to play a 4-2-3-1 formation with Mbappé leading the attack.
  • The match has significant implications for the Ballon d'Or race.
France is set to clash with Spain in the semi-finals of the UEFA Nations League on June 5, 2025, at 21:00. This highly anticipated rematch comes almost a year after Spain defeated France in the Euro semi-finals, emphasizing the competitive history between the two nations. The match follows a thrilling victory by PSG in the Champions League final, adding to the excitement surrounding French football.

Spain arrives as the reigning European champions, with coach Luis De La Fuente expected to use a 4-3-3 formation. The Spanish side will feature key players such as goalkeeper Simon and defenders Porro and Cucurella, alongside emerging talents like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams bolstering their attack.

In contrast, France, led by Didier Deschamps, faces notable challenges due to the absence of key players like Koundé and Upamecano. Deschamps is likely to field a 4-2-3-1 formation, placing Kylian Mbappé as the central forward, flanked by Ousmane Dembélé and Doué on the wings. This match also has implications for the Ballon d'Or race, particularly between Yamal and Dembélé, as both players seek to shine on such a significant stage.

As the teams prepare for the showdown, the semi-final represents a crucial opportunity for both nations to advance to the finals and assert their dominance in European football.

Sources (1)

Sports

France and Spain Gear Up for Nations League Semi-final Showdown

France prepares to face Spain in the UEFA Nations League semi-finals with a strong lineup and strategy.

Key Points

  • France faces Spain in UEFA Nations League semi-final in Stuttgart.
  • France expected to use a 4-2-3-1 formation with key players like Mbappé, Doué, and Dembélé.
  • Midfield pairing of Manu Koné and Adrien Rabiot anticipated.
  • Pierre Kalulu may earn his first cap for France in this crucial match.
The French national football team is poised to face Spain in the UEFA Nations League semi-finals, scheduled for Thursday in Stuttgart. Under the guidance of head coach Didier Deschamps, the team has made detailed preparations, focusing on tactical formations and player selections ahead of this crucial match.

France is expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with notable players including Kylian Mbappé leading the attack. On the wings, Désiré Doué and Ousmane Dembélé are likely to start, both riding high on recent success after their Champions League victory. Doué's impressive performances have earned him a spot in the squad, bringing youthful energy to the team.

In midfield, the duo of Manu Koné and Adrien Rabiot is set to control the game while the defense will consist of Clément Lenglet and Ibrahima Konaté as the central defenders. Théo Hernandez is favored to start over Lucas Digne at left-back, while Pierre Kalulu may be handed his debut for the national team, further underscoring the depth and youth in Deschamps' selection.

The match promises to be a significant test for France, which aims to secure a path to the final of the prestigious tournament. As they focus on their preparations, the players are conditioned to rise to the occasion, with their recent performances bolstering their confidence.

This semi-final clash not only represents a key moment in the Nations League but also poses an opportunity for France to assert their dominance against a traditional rival in Spain, adding to the excitement surrounding this high-stakes encounter.

Sources (1)

Sports

Michael Oliver Appointed as Referee for Nations League Semi-Final Between France and Spain

Michael Oliver will officiate the Nations League semi-final featuring France and Spain.

Key Points

  • Michael Oliver is appointed as the referee for the Nations League semi-final.
  • The match is set for Thursday at 21:00 in Stuttgart.
  • Oliver, 40, has been an international referee since 2012.
  • He has previously officiated matches involving both France and Spain.
Michael Oliver, a seasoned English referee, has been appointed to officiate the Nations League semi-final between France and Spain, scheduled for Thursday at 21:00 in Stuttgart. At 40 years old, Oliver has been an international referee since 2012 and has held elite status with UEFA since 2018. He has a history of officiating matches involving both teams, having recently refereed France's quarter-final victory over Croatia and Spain's Euro 2020 matches, including a win against Croatia. Oliver will be supported by assistant referees Stuart Burt and James Mainwaring, fourth official Andrew Madley, and VAR officials Jarred Gillett and Michael Salisbury.

Sources (1)

Sports

France Prepares for UEFA Nations League Semi-Final Showdown Against Spain

France aims to avenge its Euro 2024 defeat by facing Spain in the UEFA Nations League semi-finals, boosted by PSG players.

Key Points

  • Match scheduled for June 5, 2025, at 21:00 on TF1.
  • France's team includes five players fresh from PSG's Champions League victory.
  • Désiré Doué expresses confidence in winning the trophy.
  • Match features a personal rivalry for the Ballon d'Or between Dembélé and Yamal.
The French national football team is gearing up to face Spain in the semi-finals of the UEFA Nations League on June 5, 2025. This match presents a significant moment for France, as it serves as a chance for revenge following their earlier defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals. Having recently celebrated a Champions League victory with Paris Saint-Germain, five PSG players including Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué, Lucas Hernandez, Bradley Barcola, and Warren Zaïre-Emery have joined the national squad, which is expected to enhance team morale and performance.

The match will kick off at 21:00 and will be broadcast live on TF1, with streaming available on TF1+. The French team, led by stars like Kylian Mbappé and Dembélé, is eager to make a strong statement against their rivals. Doué expressed confidence in the team's prospects, remarking, "Everyone is convinced we can win this trophy."

France's strategy will likely incorporate elements drawn from PSG’s successful high-pressing and possession-based style, though there's limited time for thorough tactical integration. The assistant coach, Guy Stephan, emphasized the importance of harnessing the psychological boost provided by PSG’s triumph, stating, "When players are good and win, it's tempting to ride that wave of momentum."

Looking to the upcoming match, both France and Spain bring rich histories into the competition, with France aiming to carve out an identity distinct from their rivals, who have been influenced by FC Barcelona's playing philosophy. As France seeks to add a second Nations League title to their achievements, previous encounters highlight the competitive stakes of this semi-final encounter.

Sources (2)

Sports

France and Spain Set for Nations League Semi-Final Showdown

France prepares to face Spain in a crucial Nations League semi-final, aiming for redemption after a previous loss.

Key Points

  • The match is set for Thursday at 21:00 in Stuttgart.
  • France seeks revenge after losing to Spain in Euro 2024 semi-finals.
  • 16,000 French fans expected at the venue, MHPArena.
  • Lamine Yamal challenges Ousmane Dembélé, linking match performance to the Ballon d'Or.
The Nations League semi-final between France and Spain is eagerly awaited, scheduled for Thursday at 21:00 in Stuttgart. This match provides France with a chance for retribution following their recent defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 semi-finals, where they lost 2-1. The French national team, under the management of Didier Deschamps, is set to bring new talent into the starting lineup, showcasing players such as Rayan Cherki, Loïc Badé, Malo Gusto, and Mohamed Doué.

A significant contingent of 16,000 French fans is expected to travel to the MHPArena to support their team. The match will be broadcast live on TF1 and will also be accessible for commentary on lefigaro.fr, allowing fans to stay updated on the unfolding events.

Meanwhile, young Barcelona star Lamine Yamal has added an extra layer of interest to the match by challenging French player Ousmane Dembélé, who recently clinched the Champions League title with Paris Saint-Germain. Yamal, only 17 years old, believes that individual performances in this match could significantly influence the upcoming Ballon d'Or awards, where he also hopes to be a contender. His statement, "I am convinced that we will win Thursday," reflects his confidence ahead of the clash, although he underlined the importance of focusing on performance rather than the trophy, stating, "I want to play, win, and it will eventually come."

This semi-final not only promises thrilling football but also showcases the rising rivalry between the players, making it an essential fixture for fans of both nations. As the match approaches, anticipation continues to mount for what could be a defining moment for both teams in this tournament.

Sources (2)

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