Spain vs France Preview, Team News, Prediction and odds: 5/6/2025

Spain, the reigning UEFA Nations League and European champions, will face off against two-time World Cup winners France in the second semi-final of the 2024/25 UEFA Nations League. The match is scheduled to take place at the MHPArena in Stuttgart, following Germany’s earlier semi-final encounter with Portugal in Munich.

Spain Overview

Under head coach Luis de la Fuente, Spain’s recent run of form has cemented their position as one of Europe’s elite. Despite beginning his tenure with a 2-0 defeat to Scotland in Glasgow, De la Fuente’s side quickly rebounded, claiming the 2022/23 UEFA Nations League title. Their upward trajectory continued through UEFA EURO 2024, where Spain secured the championship with a series of commanding performances.

Spain advanced to the semi-finals after a tightly contested two-legged quarter-final against the Netherlands. The first match ended in a 2-2 draw in Amsterdam, while the second leg in Valencia also saw a 3-3 stalemate. Spain progressed after edging the Dutch 5-4 in a penalty shootout.

Predicted Spain XI (4-3-3): Unai Simon; Pedro Porro, Dean Huijsen, Robin Le Normand, Marc Cucurella; Pedri, Martin Zubimendi, Dani Olmo; Lamine Yamal, Alvaro Morata, Nico Williams
Unavailable: Dani Carvajal, Marc Casado, Ferran Torres

France Overview

France’s campaign under Didier Deschamps continues amid growing criticism over the team’s playing style and consistency. Although Deschamps has confirmed his intention to step down after the 2026 World Cup, there is mounting pressure for change sooner due to perceived stagnation in the squad’s performances.

In the quarter-finals, France faced Croatia and initially struggled, losing 2-0 in Zagreb. They reversed the deficit with a 2-0 win in the return leg at Stade de France, eventually securing their place in the semi-finals through a 5-4 penalty shootout victory. The result highlighted both the resilience and lingering vulnerabilities of the French side.

Predicted France XI (4-3-3): Mike Maignan; Benjamin Pavard, Ibrahima Konate, Clement Lenglet, Lucas Hernandez; Warren Zaire-Emery, Aurelien Tchouameni, Matteo Guendouzi; Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembele, Kylian Mbappe
Unavailable: Youssouf Fofana

Team News and Predicted Line-Ups

Spain will be without Rodri, who is recovering from a recent injury despite returning to action for Manchester City. The Spanish squad also misses several key players including Dani Carvajal, Marc Casado, and Ferran Torres. However, the emergence of young talents like Lamine Yamal, Pedri, and Nico Williams continues to bolster Spain’s attack.

France, meanwhile, will be without defenders Dayot Upamecano, William Saliba, and Jules Kounde, who have all been rested. Additionally, several players are arriving late due to involvement in the UEFA Champions League final, including Ousmane Dembele, Warren Zaire-Emery, and Lucas Hernandez. Youssouf Fofana is sidelined with injury.

Prediction

Spain are expected to control possession and dominate midfield exchanges, leveraging their creative depth to break through France’s lines. With Lamine Yamal in excellent form, the Spanish attack could exploit France’s left flank, particularly if fullback Theo Hernandez makes frequent forward runs.

France, however, pose a serious threat on the counter-attack, with Mbappe and Dembele likely to target Spain’s weakened right side of defence. If the French front line can capitalize on these moments, they may be able to disrupt Spain’s rhythm.

This semi-final matchup mirrors the drama of their EURO 2024 encounter, and both sides are expected to score in a closely contested affair. Given current form and midfield strength, Spain enter as slight favourites to reach the final once again.

Prediction: Spain to win & both teams to score