France vs Spain: Predicted Lineup for UEFA Nations League

Two of the European football heavyweights, France and Spain, will face each other in the UEFA Nations League semifinal at the MHPArena in Stuttgart on Thursday, June 5, 2025. The game is not just any game; it's a clash between two powerhouses with rich history, galaxy-spanning squads, and the desire to prove themselves on the world stage. Here's all you need to know about the projected lineups, team updates, and what to anticipate from this thrilling encounter.

The Stage is Set

UEFA Nations League was formed with the idea of adding significance to international friendlies, and this semifinal is a quintessential representation of its success. The victor will go up against either Germany or Portugal in the final, so every second matters for both France and Spain. Both teams have worked hard to get to this point. Spain edged past the Netherlands in a penalty shootout thriller after a 5-5 aggregate nail-biter, with France coming from a 2-0 first-leg lead to defeat Croatia on penalties.

Team News and Injuries

France have a few injured key players. William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano, their first-choice central defenders, along with right-back Jules Kounde, are absent. Midfielder Eduardo Camavinga is also not available, so Didier Deschamps will need to tinker with his regular starting lineup. All things considered, though, France's team is full of quality players who can play when called upon.

Spain too are managing a couple of absences. Rodri, their midfield general, is recovering from injury, while Ferran Torres has been absent following surgery for appendicitis. But Luis de la Fuente has all the choice, from bright young talent such as Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, who have been playing in top gear this season.

France's lineup may vary based on Deschamps' selection, particularly in attack and right-back where Gusto or Pavard could start. Mbappe, as ever, will lead the threat upfront.

France Predicted Lineup (4-3-3):

Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan
Defenders: Malo Gusto (or Benjamin Pavard), Ibrahima Konate, Lucas Hernandez, Lucas Digne
Midfielders: Aurelien Tchouameni, Manu Kone, Adrien Rabiot
Forwards: Michael Olise, Kylian Mbappe, Randal Kolo Muani (or Ousmane Dembele)

Spain's lineup may experience some rotations in defense and attack. Youthful players like Cubarsi and Huijsen are battling for the starting position, while Gavi and Pedri are both viable in midfield.

Spain Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):

Goalkeeper: Unai Simon
Defenders: Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi (or Dean Huijsen), Robin Le Normand, Marc Cucurella
Midfielders: Martin Zubimendi, Pedri (or Gavi)
Attacking Midfielders: Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Nico Williams
Forward: Alvaro Morata (or Mikel Oyarzabal)

What to Expect

Both sides possess potent forwards and inventive midfielders, so one would expect a thrilling, free-flowing match. Spain are on an 18-game unbeaten run and confidence is high following their success at Euro 2024. France are ranked third in the world and are always a threat, particularly with Mbappe up front.

The two sides last clashed in a top-level tournament at Euro 2024, where Spain triumphed 2-1 in the semifinal after a late comeback. France will seek revenge, while Spain will be seeking to extend their winning streak and hold on to their Nations League title.

This game is the real battle of styles. France are physical, fast, and counter-attackers, whereas Spain play possession football, with quick passing and technical ability. Both nations have their pros and cons, and it could be a case of who can assert their game plan on the other.

Both sides are not perfect and both have had to endure hardship to get as far as they have. France have had moments where they've struggled in major games recently, but always seem to manage to grind out when it counts most. Spain are themselves on a wave of confidence but will need to watch themselves against France's pacey forwards.

Final Thoughts

The UEFA Nations League semifinal clash between France and Spain is a mouth-watering one. With so many stars on both teams, you can be sure of goals, drama, and lots of action. Whether you are a France fan, Spain fan, or you just love good football, this is a game you do not want to miss.

Win or lose, the true victor will be football, as two of the globe's finest teams face each other for a spot in the final. Relax, watch, and admire the talent and devotion on show from both teams. This is what international football is all about.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies