Lamin Yamal delivered a stunning two-goal performance as Spain survived a late French comeback to win 5-4 in the Nations League semifinal. The teenage sensation converted a penalty and added another goal to help "La Roja" advance to the final against Portugal.
"Spain" started the scoring fest in the 22nd minute when Nico Williams found the net, followed quickly by Mikel Merino who doubled the advantage just three minutes later.
The second half turned into a goal extravaganza. Yamal converted from the penalty spot in the 54th minute before Pedri added a fourth just two minutes later, seemingly putting the game beyond reach. But wait - the drama was far from over.
Kylian Mbappe pulled one back for "France" with a penalty of his own in the 59th minute, but Yamal restored the four-goal cushion with his second strike in the 67th minute.
At 5-1, Luis de la Fuente's men appeared to relax - perhaps too much. The French mounted an unexpected comeback with Ryan Cherki scoring in the 79th minute, followed by an unfortunate own goal from substitute Dani Vivian in the 84th. Randal Kolo Muani then made it 5-4 deep into stoppage time, creating a nervous finish.
By the way, Spain's victory sets up an intriguing Iberian derby in the final, as they'll face "Portugal" who earlier defeated "Germany" 2-1 in the other semifinal.
The Nations League final will take place on June 8, with France and Germany playing for third place on the same day. Can Spain maintain their composure for the full 90 minutes against Cristiano Ronaldo and company? They certainly can't afford another late defensive collapse.
