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France Suffer Historic Collapse in 5-4 Nations League Defeat to Spain
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France blown away! Records sent tumbling as Les Bleus concede five goals for the first time in 56 YEARS against incredible Spain
France endured a night to forget in Stuttgart as they lost a dramatic 5-4 thriller to Spain in the UEFA Nations League semi-final on Thursday, picking up some unwanted records along the way.
Despite a spirited late comeback, Les Bleus were blown away early on, conceding four goals without reply — a feat not seen since August 1982, when they trailed 4-0 against Poland, according to OptaJean.
Even more damning, the five goals shipped mark the first time France have conceded that many in a single match since a 5-0 defeat to England in March 1969.
Under Didier Deschamps, France came into the match with high hopes of reaching their second Nations League final, having won the title in 2021 after a 2-1 victory over Spain in Italy — a match famously sealed by a late winner from Kylian Mbappé.
But Thursday’s performance painted a different picture.
Spain, the newly crowned Euro 2024 champions, ruthlessly dismantled France’s defence, racing to a commanding lead before Les Bleus mounted a late but ultimately futile comeback.
While the attacking effort showed character, the ease with which Spain cut through France’s backline has raised serious questions about their tactical discipline and readiness for upcoming tournaments.
France now turn their attention to the third-place play-off against Germany on Sunday afternoon, hoping to salvage some pride and end their Nations League campaign on a positive note.
Meanwhile, Spain will clash with Portugal in the final later that day.
With a World Cup and Nations League title already under Deschamps’ belt, expectations are always high — but after this historic collapse, it’s clear France has defensive issues to resolve before the next competitive window.