Spain’s new generation delivered a statement performance as they edged past France 5-4 in a pulsating UEFA Nations League semifinal in Stuttgart on Thursday. The attacking duo of Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams was electric, combining for three goals and an assist to put La Roja in Sunday’s final against Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portugal.

Seventeen-year-old Yamal scored twice and won a penalty, while Williams added a goal and an assist in a high-octane clash that saw Spain lead 5-1 before a late French resurgence. Mikel Merino and Pedri also found the net in a display of clinical finishing and youth-driven flair from the reigning Euro 2024 champions.

France, led by Kylian Mbappe, looked second-best for most of the contest despite dangerous moments from Ousmane Dembele and Theo Hernandez early on. Mbappe scored a penalty midway through the second half, but his effort was overshadowed by Spain’s relentless counterattacks and crisp teamwork. Though Les Bleus staged a dramatic late fightback, scoring three goals in the final 15 minutes—including a long-range strike from debutant Rayan Cherki, a Daniel Vivian own goal, and a stoppage-time header from Randal Kolo Muani—it proved too little too late.

Spain started on the back foot, surviving early pressure as France missed key chances, but soon flipped the script with two quick goals around the 22-minute mark. Williams smashed home the opener after a clever assist from Oyarzabal, and Merino doubled the lead just minutes later.

After the break, Yamal took center stage. The young winger won a penalty, took the ball from Williams, and confidently slotted it home to make it 3-0. A minute later, Williams assisted Pedri for the fourth. Even Mbappe’s penalty couldn’t stop the Spanish onslaught, as Yamal returned with another strike to make it 5-1.

With the win, Spain set up an all-Iberian final clash against Portugal in Munich, promising another explosive contest. France will now compete for third place against hosts Germany in Stuttgart. For Spain, this was more than just a semifinal win it was a show of strength and promise. With Yamal, Williams, and Pedri leading the charge, La Roja may have found a golden generation ready to dominate European football.