France vs Spain
France came back from a goal down to beat Spain 2-1 to win the UEFA Nations League on Sunday. Kylian Mbappe and Karim Benzema scored for the world champions in their latest comeback again. France previously came from behind to beat Belgium 3-2 in the semi-finals.
Chelsea’s Cesar Azpilicueta was in good form throughout the match as he thwarted early attempts from striker Karim Benzema. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Hugo Lloris was up to the task in the other end as he slammed the door shut for Spain’s forwards.
The 17-year-old midfielder Gavi once again started for Spain and he put up another impressive performance in the right-hand side of the three-man midfield.
Ferran Torres was lively on the right wing for Spain. The Man City winger was keeping Kimpembe and co. busy in the first half.
Meanwhile, French defender Theo Hernandez’s effort bounced off the crossbar and missed the line by just a few yards as Spain held the World Champions to a 0-0 score at halftime.
Spain takes the lead
Spain took the lead in the 64th minute after Mikel Oyarzabal ran loose past his marker to score the goal.
However, a minute later Karim Benzema silenced the Spanish supporters. The Real Madrid striker scored a world-class goal from just outside the penalty area, curling it past Unai Simon to level the score. Mbappe gave France the lead in the 81st minute as he lurked past the Spanish defense. The goal was checked by the VAR after Mbappe looked to be offside. However, the goal stood since the VAR referee ruled that central defender Eric Garcia’s touch initiated a new phase of play. Therefore, it cannot be ruled out for offside.
France made amends for a disappointing Euro display with the UEFA Nations League win. Meanwhile, Spain can hold their head high up after standing up against the world champuons with a mostly young squad.
