Spain edged out France 5-4 in a dramatic UEFA Nations League semi-final on June, 2025, with Robin Le Normand anchoring Spain’s defense against his nation of birth The match, played at Stuttgart’s MHPArena, saw both teams deliver an attacking showcase, but it was Spain’s resilience that ultimately secured their place in the final.
Le Normand, now a key figure for Spain after his naturalization in 2023, faced France for the first time in a major international tournament. Despite the emotional stakes, he stated before the match that he held “no resentment” toward Les Bleus, emphasizing his gratitude for the opportunities football in Spain has provided him.
Spain’s starting lineup featured Le Normand in a 4-3-3 formation alongside Unai Simón, Marc Cucurella, Dean Huijsen, and Pedro Porro. France countered with a 4-2-3-1 setup led by Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé.
The match was a rollercoaster, with both sides exchanging goals in a high-scoring affair. Le Normand’s defensive presence was crucial during key moments, especially as France pressed for an equalizer late in the match. Ultimately, Spain’s narrow victory was enough to send them through, leaving fans and pundits debating the turning points and standout performances.
For Le Normand, the night was not just about the scoreline but about proving his value on the international stage—against the country where his football journey began.
