A blockbuster clash unfolds at MHPArena in Stuttgart on Thursday as reigning champions Spain take on 2021 winners France in the semi-finals of the UEFA Nations League.
This blockbuster game is a rematch of the 2021 Nations League final, where France edged Spain 2-1, and the semi-finals of the 2024 Euros, which Spain won by the same scoreline.
Now, with both teams boasting stacked squads and points to prove (a certain Ballon d’Or apparently), another continental thriller awaits under the German sky.
🇪🇸Spain Chase Back-to-Back Nations League Titles | Spain Win = 2.44💵
Luis de la Fuente’s men are riding a 20-match unbeaten wave, with 15 wins and five draws since March 2023. They dispatched the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout after two thrilling 2-2 draws in the quarters.
Spain has scored 2+ goals in 15 of those 20 matches, but clean sheets have eluded them in their last four Nations League outings. Still, they remain firm favourites on account of their being European Champions.
🇫🇷France Look to Reclaim UNL Glory | France Win = 3.23💵
Didier Deschamps' side mounted a comeback against Croatia in the quarters, overturning a 2-0 deficit before winning on penalties. That grit is a hallmark of Les Bleus, who are hungry for silverware again after Euro 2024 and World Cup near-misses.
France, boasting four wins, one draw and one defeat in their last 6 games, has alternated between wins and losses in their last five games against Spain (W2 L3), showing how finely balanced this rivalry is.
Despite defensive absentees like Upamecano, Saliba and Kounde, France boasts elite depth. Europe’s top scorer, Kylian Mbappe, is closing in on 50 international goals, while Dembele, Doue, and Olise are in devastating form.
🗝️Key Players & Team News📰:
Spain is without Rodri and Ferran Torres, but Gavi, Isco, and Cubarsí return to boost the squad. Yamal, Dani Olmo, and Nico Williams may start in an explosive front three. Real Madrid's new signing, Huijsen, may face his new teammates.
France will manage fatigue from their UCL finalists but still bring serious firepower. Mbappe leads the line, with Pavard and Gusto likely to start in a reshuffled backline. Lyon’s Rayan Cherki pushes for his senior debut after a fine season.
🔢Match Stats & Betting Odds | Draw = 3.33💵
⚽ Spain is unbeaten in 20 straight games, scoring 2+ goals in 15 of those. | Specials Market: (Double Chance & GG/NG) Home/Draw & Yes = 2.33
⚽ France has scored 9 goals in their last 4 UNL away matches. | Specials Market: (O/U & GG/NG) Over 2.5 & Yes = 2.33
⚽ 4 of the last 5 meetings between these two teams were decided by just one goal. | Main Market: (Handicap) 0:1 Away = 1.58
Both sides are packed with talent and determined to make history, setting up a Nations League classic in Stuttgart. Don’t blink—this one could go the distance.
🔗Watch Spain vs France (UEFA Nations League) on MSport.
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