In 2022 World Cup news, France coach Didier Deschamps admitted he was "immensely proud" after Wednesday's 2-0 win over Morocco took the holders through to another World Cup final where he said his team would try to find a way of countering a Lionel Messi in "scintillating form" for Argentina.
France are aiming to become the first team in 60 years to win back-to-back World Cup titles after Brazil's double victories in 1958 and 1962.
⚠️ | QUICK STAT
France when held under 45% possession at the #FIFAWorldCup under Didier Deschamps:
"I am immensely proud. It is great to be through to the final but it was not an easy victory," Deschamps said after an early goal by Theo Hernandez and a late finish from substitute Randal Kolo Muani at Al Bayt Stadium saw off the first ever African or Arab team to reach a World Cup semi-final.
"We needed a mixture of quality, experience and team spirit, and in difficult periods we had to dig deep but I am really satisfied and proud of my players."
The defending champions must prepare to face an Argentina side who have been inspired on their way to the final by Messi and who will be seeking revenge for a 4-3 defeat when the teams met in the last 16 four years ago.
"Messi has been in scintillating form since the start of the tournament," Deschamps admitted.
"Four years ago things were different. He played as a centre forward, whereas now he is playing in a front two or just in behind the striker.
"He looks in great shape and of course he is one of the best players in the world so we will try to counter Messi's threat as much as possible, just as Argentina will try to stop the influence of some of my players."
For more 2022 World Cup news, follow Sportz Point.
Till now, along with the hosts USA, Mexico and Canada, ten other teams have qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026. For the first time, 48 teams will participate in the World Cup.
Australia celebrate qualifying for their sixth straight FIFA World Cup 2026.
The participating teams' line-up for the FIFA World Cup 2026 has started taking shape, as Iran and Argentina have booked their place from the qualification round into the finals of the tournament.
In 2022, the FIFA World Cupprovided an unforgettable experience for over 1 billion viewers who tuned in. LionelMessi-led Argentina to victory, giving the nation moments of joy and a fitting tribute to the late Diego Maradona while solidifying his place among players who have won every major trophy.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino and his team in their bid to improve the quality of the World Cup and promote inclusivity increased the number of teams that will participate in the World Cup from an initial 32 teams to 48 teams.
The teams will be split into 12 groups of 4 teams, with the top 2 of each group and the 8 best third-placed teams progressing to a new Round of 32,
The tournament will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, and will be jointly hosted by 16 cities in three North American countries: Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
The tournament will be the first hosted by three nations and the first North American World Cup since 1994 and will be the first World Cup since 2002 to be hosted by more than one nation.
Qualification for the World Cup is done based on the regions of the World. Each regional Confederation is responsible for its qualification tournament, which will consist of at least one round of competition using the following formats
Confederations can use a League format in which each team in a group plays all other teams in their group twice – once at home and once away.
A single round-robin format in which each team in a group plays all other teams in their group once, with the venues either drawn at random or assigned by the confederation with the agreement of the playing association
A Knockout format in which each team in a round plays one other team over two legs once at home and once away.
With FIFA's permission, a tournament is held in one of the participating nations or neutral territory.
With FIFA's permission, a single-leg knockout format.
Europe has 16 slots, Asia has 8 slots with one extra from playoffs making it 9, Africa has 9 slots with one extra coming from playoffs,South America has 6 with one extra coming from playoffs making a total of 7, North America has 6 slots with 3 already taken due to the host nations.
Teams That Have Qualified
With qualifications still ongoing, the only nations that have qualified are the host nations, namely the United States of America, Mexico, and Canada qualification process for the World Cup will be ongoing till the end of November 2025, and till then, teams will be struggling to qualify.
1. The USA
Despite not predominantly being a football nation, the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) has managed to establish a formidable team with the likes of Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun.
The appointment of Argentinian Mauricio Pochettino as their head coach shows some sign of intent that the country intends to go as far as possible in the World Cup.
Mexico has qualified for every World Cup in the past decade, but playing on home soil will give them the advantage of fan support. While they may be without their veteran goalkeeper Ochoa, who has been crucial in past tournaments, they remain a team not to be underestimated.
Canada had a memorable 2022 World Cup in Qatar, highlighted by their surprising win against Belgium. However, they lost their remaining group games to Morocco and Croatia, leading to their early exit from the tournament.
Known for their attacking football, Canada relies on pace in midfield and attack, with Jonathan David and Alphonso Davies being key to their World Cup ambitions.
Teams from the Qualifier Rounds
4. Japan
Japan has become the first team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup from the qualification round. On March 20, Thursday, Hajime Moriyasu's side beat Bahrain 2-0 in Group C of the AFC World Cup qualifiers.
Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo scored in the second half to inspire the Samurai Blue to ensure their eighth consecutive World Cup appearance, guaranteeing a top-two finish in the qualifiers standings.
New Zealand has qualified for the FIFA World Cup for the third time with a 3-0 home win over New Caledonia in the OFC Qualifiers Final on Monday, March 24.
Three second-half goals from Michael Boxall, Kosta Barbarouses, and Elijah led New Zealand to a comfortable 3-0 win at Eden Park in Auckland. This win marks the All Whites' return to the World Cup for the first time since 2010 when they registered three draws against Slovakia, Italy, and Paraguay in South Africa.
For the first time, the All Whites qualified directly for a World Cup, as Oceania received an automatic spot in next year’s 48-team tournament, rather than having to go through an intercontinental play-off as they did in the past.
6. Iran
(Image Credit | AFP)
Iran have become the second Asian side to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals following a 2-2 draw against Uzbekistan on March 25 in the third round of the AFC World Cup Qualifiers Group A.
Mehdi Taremi's brace secured a point for Iran to stay atop the Group A table with 20 points in 8 matches, securing the guaranteed top two finish in the group stage. On the other hand, Uzbekistan is just one victory away from their inaugural World Cup appearance.
Tino pai to our fantastic national football team🙌 Mean as! Iran has secured its place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the third team to qualify after Japan and @NZ_Football Ka mau te wehi 🇮🇷 This marks our fourth consecutive appearance after 2014,2018,and2022!#FIFAWorldCuppic.twitter.com/2RjE9j2gpa
— The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran (@iranembassy_nz) March 25, 2025
Despite the qualification format being made easier for Asia due to the expanded 48-team World Cup, Iran has sealed the passage to their fourth World Cup finals in a row, and seventh in their history.
In the AFC Qualifiers, the top two teams qualify directly for the World Cup, while the teams finishing third and fourth in the three Asian groups will enter an additional qualifying round.
7. Argentina
(Image Credit | EPA)
The reigning World Champions have stormed into the FIFA World Cup 2026 following a 4-1 crushing over eternal rivals Brazil in the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers on March 26.
La Albiceleste currently top the table with 31 points in 14 matches, 16 points clear of seventh-placed Venezuela, with the required seven points at this point.
8. Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026 as the 8th team to qualify till now. They have qualified in virtue of finishing in the top two in Group A of the AFC's third-round of qualifiers.
This is the first time they have qualified for the FIFA World Cup. Not only that, they are the first Central Asia country to qualify for the grandest stage of football.
South Korea qualified for their 11th straight FIFA World Cup after finishing in the top two of the AFC third round qualifiers. Tottenham's Son Heung-min, Wolves' Hwang Hee-chan, Bayern Munich's Kim Min-jae and Paris Saint-Germain's Lee Kang-in all will be ready to star for South Korea in the upcoming World Cup.
Ali Olwan scored a hat-trick against Oman to take Jordan to their maiden FIFA World Cup
While South Korea sealed their spot at the FIFA World Cup with that 2-0 victory over Iraq, their win also ensured that Jordan will be playing at their first-ever FIFA World Cup next year.
Ali Olwan's hat-trick has given them a big 3-0 win over Oman, and after South Korea's win, they will now create history at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
In Group B of the AFC Third round qualifiers, Jordan lost only one match and finished in the top two of the group, below South Korea.
Socceroos confirmed their place at a sixth successive FIFA World Cup after beating Saudi Arabia by 2-1 in Saudi Arabia. Connor Metcalfe (42), Mitch Duke (48) scored for the Aussies to help them win after falling behind by a 19-minute goal from Abdulrahman Al-Aboud.
Australia have now confirmed the top spot in Group C in the AFC Third round qualifiers. Japan are leading Group C, which have already qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Brazil continued their run at the FIFA World Cup after ensuring qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026. They are the only team to qualify for every FIFA World Cup.
The Selecao defeated Paraguay by 1-0 as Vinicius Jr. handed a special gift to new Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti for his 66th birthday.
VINIIII JR.!!!!
TINHAA QUE SER ELE!! BELO PRESENTÃO DE ANIVERSÁRIO PARA O MISTER 🇧🇷🇧🇷
11 players who have won the most trophies in football history
Argentine legend Lionel Messi has won the most trophies in football history (46). Here are the other 10 players who follow him on this list most successful football history.
Many great players have taken the football pitch and left the fans in awe. However, only a few players have gone on to win various trophies in their careers. In this special article, we will take a look at an elite list of players who have won the most trophies in football as a player.
But, yes, the below list only counts the major trophies won with teams and only only individual awards. We wanted to be clear with that at the start. With this list of "11 players who have won the most trophies in football history," we will able to judge which player has been a part of a winning team mostly.
Though, it is not always the case that when you win a trophy, you have a big role to play in that. But, in this list, all the players listed always had big contributions to their team's success. So, without further a due, let's checkout the list.
Top 11 players with the most trophies in football:
11. Vitor Baia (34 trophies)
Vitor Baia with the 2004 UEFA Champions League Trophy for FC Porto.
Vitor Baia spent most of his career with FC Porto except playing two years for Barcelona. Baia started his career with FC Porto in 1988 and left the club to join Barcelona in 1996.
Before retiring in 2007, he played for Barcelona in two stints and won the La Liga in 1997-98 season. His most success came his boyhood club FC Porto, where he won the Liga Portugal 10 times.
However, the biggest achievement was to win the UEFA Champions League in 2004 with the Dragons. Under the visionary eyes of Jose Mourinho, they created one of the greatest underdog success stories in European football.
In a total, Baia won 25 trophies with the Porto while adding the rest to his collection of glories for Barcelona. Unfortunately, he was not able to add any trophy while playing for Portugal.
Scottish legend Sir Kenny Dalglish is Liverpool's one of the most legendary players. Apart from playing 13 years for the Reds, he played for Celtic for 8 years at the start of his career.
For Liverpool FC, he won a club record 8 Premier League titles along with three Champions League titles. He had won 7 English Super Cups and 2 FA Cup titles as well.
While playing for Celtic, he became the Scottish Champion four times.
Di Maria kissing the FIFA World CUP 2022 Trophy | Image - Mundo Deportivo
One of the most underrated players in modern football history, Di Maria always had to shine under the shadows of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Di Maria played alongside Lionel Messi for Argentina and then shared club dressing room with Cristiano at Real Madrid.
With his latest trophy for Benfica in the Portuguese Super Cup, he now has won 35 trophies in his career. Di Maria won five Ligue 1 titles with PSG and won his only Champions League title with Real Madrid.
However, just like Lionel Messi, his international success bloomed late in his career. He won the Copa America twice in 2021 and 2024. But, his major success was to win the FIFA World Cup 2022, where he scored an important in the final.
Di Maria retired from international football after the 2024 Copa America final.
#
Achievement
Year(s)
Team
Count
1
World Cup Winner
2022
Argentina
1
2
Copa América Winner
23/24, 20/21
Argentina
2
3
Champions League Winner
13/14
Real Madrid
1
4
Spanish Champion
11/12
Real Madrid
1
5
French Champion
Multiple Years
Paris Saint-Germain
5
6
UEFA Supercup Winner
14/15
Real Madrid
1
7
French Cup Winner
Multiple Years
Paris Saint-Germain
4
8
Spanish Cup Winner
13/14, 10/11
Real Madrid
2
9
French League Cup Winner
Multiple Years
Paris Saint-Germain
4
10
Spanish Super Cup Winner
12/13
Real Madrid
1
11
Portuguese Champion
09/10
SL Benfica
1
12
Portuguese League Cup Winner
Multiple Years
SL Benfica
3
13
Under-20 World Cup Champion
2007
Argentina U20
1
14
CONMEBOL-UEFA Cup of Champions Winner
21/22
Argentina
1
15
French Super Cup Winner
Multiple Years
Paris Saint-Germain
5
16
Olympic Medalist
2008
Argentina Olympic Team
1
17
Portuguese Super Cup Winner
2024
SL Benfica
1
Total Titles
35
8. Cristiano Ronaldo (36 trophies)
Arguably one of the greatest players in the history of football, Cristiano Ronaldo has 36 trophies in his cabinet at the moment. The Portuguese legend won his latest trophy for Portugal, as he lifted the UEFA Nations League 2025 for his country.
Ronaldo, who started his club career with Sporting CP, won the Portuguese Super Cup with the club in 2003. That was the start to a historical career which gave football fans joy for over two decades.
The Portuguese legend flourished under Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United. He then joined Real Madrid, where he won four of his five UEFA Champions League titles. Ronaldo has won a title for every club he has played for so far.
However, one of his biggest achievements as a player was to win the UEFA European Cup with Portugal in 2016. Besides scoring over 900 career goals, Ronaldo's success for every team is what makes him a legend.
#
Achievement
Year(s)
Club/National Team
1
European Champion
2016
Portugal
2
Champions League Winner
17/18, 16/17, 15/16, 13/14, 07/08
Real Madrid, Manchester United
3
FIFA Club World Cup Winner
2018, 2017, 2015, 2009
Real Madrid, Manchester United
4
English Champion
08/09, 07/08, 06/07
Manchester United
5
Spanish Champion
16/17, 11/12
Real Madrid
6
Italian Champion
19/20, 18/19
Juventus FC
7
UEFA Supercup Winner
17/18, 16/17, 14/15
Real Madrid
8
Winner UEFA Nations League
2019, 2025
Portugal
9
English FA Cup Winner
2004
Manchester United
10
Spanish Cup Winner
13/14, 10/11
Real Madrid
11
Italian Cup Winner
20/21
Juventus FC
12
English League Cup Winner
2009, 2006
Manchester United
13
Spanish Super Cup Winner
17/18, 12/13
Real Madrid
14
Italian Super Cup Winner
20/21, 18/19
Juventus FC
15
English Super Cup Winner
07/08
Manchester United
16
Portuguese Super Cup Winner
2003
Sporting CP
17
Arab Club Champions Cup
2023
Al-Nassr
Total Trophies
35
7. Ryan Giggs (37 trophies)
Gigs with the Champions League title for Manchester United.
Ryan Giggs played all his life for one football club; Manchester United. In his 24-year career at the club, he won a total of 37 trophies, a record for the club.
Not only that, with 13 Premier League titles, he is league's most successful player ever. With the Red Devils, he also went on to win two UEFA Champions League title.
For United, he played 963 games and has 168 goals and 265 assists, another record for United.
Busquets showing off his trophies from Treble winning season.
Sergio Busquets, the FC Barcelona and Spain legend is one of the most underrated players ever to play. The central defender was part of one of the greatest international team which won 2010 FIFA World Cup and 2010 Euros for Spain.
The former Barcelona captain won 9 La Liga titles. Not only that, he won 7 Spanish Cups and Spanish Super Cups as well for the Catalan club.
However, his biggest achievement in club football was to win three UCL titles for Barcelona. His latest trophy is the 2024 Supporters’ Shield winners with Inter Miami CF.
Maxwell won four consecutive Ligue 1 titles with PSG.
Maxwell, the Brazilian left back might be the only unknown player on this list. The defender achieved most of his success playing for PSG in France.
However, he found success with FC Barcelona as well. But, joined PSG to find more chances as well.
Maxwell's first trophy was with Cruzeiro, winning the Brazilian Cup in 2000. Soon the joined Ajax, wining two Dutch League titles.
His move to Barcelona via Inter Milan and FC Empoli saw him winning the UEFA Champions League title in 2011. But his most success came with PSG, winning the Ligue 1 four times in a row from 2013 to 2016.
Pique showing off his trophies from Treble winning season.
Another player from that legendary Spanish and Barcelona team, who features in this list. Although known for his career at FC Barcelona, Gerard Pique had success with Manchester United as well.
It might be quite revealing for many that, he played alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, against whom he had some tough battles later.
Pique won 9 La Liga titles for Barcelona to go with 3 UCL titles for the club. But before reaching there he had won the Premier League and Champions League for United in the 2007-08 season.
He was also an integral part of the Spanish team which won the FIFA World Cup in 2010 and UEFA Euro in 2012.
Probably the best midfielder of the modern era, Andres Iniesta with 41 trophies is the third most successful footballer ever.
Another important player of that iconic Spanish and Barcelona team, Iniesta found success early in his career. He won his first major trophy with Spain U-17 team winning the U-17 Euros in 2000. He followed that up with the U-19 Euro title next year.
His Barcelona career started in 2002 which continued till 2018. In those 17 year at Barcelona, he won 32 trophies. Post that, he joined Japanese club Viseel Kobe where he won three trophies as well.
Along with all club level success, Iniesta's greatest achievement was to win the 2010 FIFA World Cup alongside lifting the 2008 and 2012 Euro Cup. His goal in the 2010 World Cup final to hand Spain their first-ever World Cup, is regarded as one of the greatest World Cup moments.
Iniesta called it a day in 2024 after spending a year at the Emirates Club.
Dani Alves celebrating the Olympic Gold medal in Tokyo. Image | sportstar
Before Lionel Messi took over as the player with most trophies in football history, it was Dani Alves who had the record. The defender won 23 trophies in eight years at Barcelona.
Dani Alves won six La Liga and three Champions League titles with Barcelona. He then won 19 more titles while playing for Juventus, PSG, and Sao Paulo. He won domestic titles in Italy, France, Brazil and Spain as, which makes him one of the greatest of his era.
The defender won six major titles with his national team, Brazil. He started his Brazil career by winning the U-20 FIFA World Cup in 2003. Alves then won two Copa America titles in 2007 and 2019. He concluded his international career by winning the Olympic gold in 2021.
Despite the recent off-field controversies, with 43 trophies in his cabinet, Dani Alves is one of the greatest ever to play the game.
#
Achievement
Year(s)
Team
1
Copa América Winner
18/19, 06/07
Brazil
2
Champions League Winner
14/15, 10/11, 08/09
FC Barcelona
3
FIFA Club World Cup Winner
2016, 2012, 2010
FC Barcelona
4
Spanish Champion
15/16, 14/15, 12/13, 10/11, 09/10, 08/09
FC Barcelona
5
Italian Champion
16/17
Juventus FC
6
French Champion
18/19, 17/18
Paris Saint-Germain
7
Uefa Supercup Winner
15/16, 11/12, 09/10, 06/07
FC Barcelona, Sevilla FC
8
Uefa Cup Winner
06/07, 05/06
Sevilla FC
9
Spanish Cup Winner
15/16, 14/15, 11/12, 08/09, 06/07
FC Barcelona, Sevilla FC
10
Italian Cup Winner
16/17
Juventus FC
11
French Cup Winner
17/18
Paris Saint-Germain
12
Spanish Super Cup Winner
13/14, 11/12, 10/11, 09/10, 07/08
FC Barcelona, Sevilla FC
13
French League Cup Winner
17/18
Paris Saint-Germain
14
Confederations Cup Winner
2013, 2009
Brazil
15
Under-20 World Cup Champion
2003
Brazil U20
16
French Super Cup Winner
17/18
Paris Saint-Germain
17
Olympic Medalist
2021
Brazil Olympic Team
18.
Copa do Nordeste
2002
Bahia
19.
Campeonato Paulista
2021
São Paulo
Total Titles
43
1. Lionel Messi (46 trophies)
Messi celebrating the FIFA World Cup 2022 victory.
Leo Messi is the player with the most trophies in football history. With his latest triumph at the 2024 Supporters’ Shield winners, the magician from Argentina won his 46th trophy in his career.
Messi won back-to-back four international trophies with Argentina within three years. He won the Copa America 2021 and then went on to win the Finalissima 2022. Then he capped off his greatest achievement by winning FIFA World Cup 2022.
The Argentine maestro has also won the Olympic Gold Medal with his country in 2008. His latest international success came in Copa America 2024.
In club football history, Messi is the most successful player with 41 club trophies to his name. He started his career with his boyhood club Barcelona and played 18 seasons for the club, scoring a record 672 goals.
The 8-time Ballon d'Or winner won four Champions League titles with Barcelona. Alongside European success, he won 10 La Liga titles as well, most for Barcelona. He has also won Spanish Cup seven times.
After his great stint at Barcelona, Messi went to the French League to play for PSG. However, he was unable to bring the UCL to the French giant, he won the French League with them. In addition, he won the French Super Cup for the season 2022-23 with PSG.
#
Achievement
Year(s)
Team
Count
1
World Cup Winner
2022
Argentina
1
2
Copa América Winner
23/24, 20/21
Argentina
2
3
Champions League Winner
Multiple Years
FC Barcelona
4
4
FIFA Club World Cup Winner
Multiple Years
FC Barcelona
3
5
Spanish Champion
Multiple Years
FC Barcelona
10
6
French Champion
22/23, 21/22
Paris Saint-Germain
2
7
UEFA Supercup Winner
Multiple Years
FC Barcelona
3
8
Spanish Cup Winner
Multiple Years
FC Barcelona
7
9
Spanish Super Cup Winner
Multiple Years
FC Barcelona
8
10
Supporters' Shield Winner
23/24
Inter Miami CF
1
11
Leagues Cup Winner
2023
Inter Miami CF
1
12
Under-20 World Cup Champion
2005
Argentina U20
1
13
CONMEBOL-UEFA Cup of Champions Winner
21/22
Argentina
1
14
French Super Cup Winner
22/23
Paris Saint-Germain
1
15
Olympic Medalist
2008
Argentina Olympic Team
1
Total Titles
46
Note: Debangshu Biswas first wrote this article and then got updated by Koushik Biswas. Stats are taken from Transfermakrt.com and accurate as of 19-01-2025
As Portugal and Spain are set to battle for their 2nd Nations League title in 2024-25 season, let's see how previous victories of this tournament unfolded. Here's the UEFA Nations League past winners list for you to explore.
The UEFA Nations League, officially commenced in September 2018, has quickly established itself as a significant title in European Football. It succeeded in igniting competitive fire in international friendlies with its innovative tournament structure.
As we are about to witness another thrilling final with Portugal and Spain aiming for their second title, it is now time to check out the UEFA Nations League past winners list.
1. Portugal | 2018-19 UEFA Nations League
Cristiano Ronaldo carrying the UEFA Nations League Trophy after their victory against Netherlands. Image | BBC
Host: Portugal
Winner: Portugal
Runners-up: Netherlands
Score: 1-0
Portugal won the inaugural season of UEFA Nations League (2018-19) on home soil, with spectacularly dominating throughout. Cristiano Ronaldo was the top-scorer and star performer for the team, who scored a hat-trickagainst England in semifinal clash, to secure their final berth.
They defeated Netherlands (1-0) in the Finals, which was decided by a single goal from Goncalo Guedes in the 60th minute of the game.
France lifting their first Nations League Title in 2020-21 season. Image | Instagram
Host: Italy
Winner: France
Runners-up: Spain
Score: 2-1
France emerged as the new champion in the second season of UEFA Nations League (2020-2021). After topping the group stage that included teams like Portugal, Croatia and Sweden, they took the winning streak to the next level.
In the Final, Spain took lead with a goal from Mikel Oyarzabal in the 64th minute. However, France responded swiftly with Karim Benzema's goal in the next 2 minutes (66') and finally, Kylian Mbappé secured the victory with another in the 80th minute of the game.
Spain celebrating their first Nations League title in 2022-23 season of the tournament. Image | Instagram
Host: Netherlands
Winners: Spain
Runners-up: Croatia
Score: 0-0 (5-4 penalties)
In the 2022-23 season of UEFA Nations League, Spain clinched their first title and became the second national team, following France, to win three major titles (World Cup, European Championship, Nations League).
They faced Croatia in the finals, and neither side could score in the 120 minutes, leading to a penalty shootout. Spain's goalkeeper Unai Simon made crucial saves in the penalties, and Dani Carvajal calmly converted the decisive goal, securing a 5-4 victory.
4. Portugal | 2024-25 UEFA Nations League
Host: Germany
Winners: Portugal
Runners-Up: Spain
Score: 2-2 (5-4 penalties)
Portugal became the first team to lift the UEFA Nations League more than once, as they lifted the 2025 edition by beating Spain in the final. Spain scored early, but Portugal kept on fighting back. Nuno Mendes showed great class as a left-back and also scored a goal.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 138th international goal to take the game to extra time and finally to penalties.
Diogo Costa made the important save as Alvaro Morata missed the penalty to hand Portugal the trophy.
Spain vs France, UEFA Nations League 2025 semi-final highlights: Five-star Spain beat France 5-4 in a record-breaking Nations League classic, to meet Portugal in final
Get the highlights of the Spain vs France, UEFA Nations League 2025 semi-final as Spain defeated France by 5-4 to set a date with Portugal in the final. Lamine Yamal scored a brace for Spain.
Hello and welcome to our LIVE coverage of the UEFA Nations League semi-final match between Spain and France in Germany tonight.
Spain are looking to become the first team to retain the Nations League since the tournament was introduced in 2018. Meanwhile, the 2021 winners, France, are also looking to win their first Nations League title since then.
This is Koushik Biswas, who will bring you all the updates of the Spain vs France, UEFA Nations League 2025 semi-final. Stay tuned and enjoy the coverage.
LIVE Updates
Jun 5, 2025, 6:59 PM
Final Score
Jun 5, 2025, 9:10 PM
Portugal vs Spain in final!
Jun 5, 2025, 9:08 PM
The highest scoring match in Nations League history!
Jun 5, 2025, 9:06 PM
That is how good it was!
⏱️ Spain 1-0 France (22') ⏱️ Spain 2-0 France (25') ⏱️ Spain 3-0 France (54') ⏱️ Spain 4-0 France (55') ⏱️ Spain 4-1 France (59') ⏱️ Spain 5-1 France (67') ⏱️ Spain 5-2 France (79') ⏱️ Spain 5-3 France (84') ⏱️ Spain 5-4 France (90'+3)
Simon does well to go low and down to his right to save Dembele's on target shot from the right.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:37 PM
36' | Lenglet blocks a shot
France are struggling here with the defence.
Pedri's delivery had created a chance for Nico to go for the goal. But, Lenglet was there to make the block.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:33 PM
33' | Yellow card
Yellow card for Lamine for a foul on Doue.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:33 PM
31' | Chance for France
Doue and Mbappe's timid efforts at the goal were saved by Simon as France looked to make a comeback in the match. Let me remind you, no second leg in the semis. The winner will face Portugal in the final on June 8th.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:28 PM
The second one!
⚡GOAL: MIKEL MERINO DOUBLES THE LEAD FOR SPAIN!!!!!!!!!
26' | Meeeeeeeeerrrriiiiiiiinnnnnoooooo | ESP 2-0 FRA
Merino's goes around the corner and Spain lead by 2-0.
Oyarzabal is again the provider but this time with a very different type of assist, completing a one-two with Merino as part of a slick spell of Spain passing with a delightful chipped ball inside the box on the right.
Merino did the rest by storming inside the box and beating Maignan in the near post.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:24 PM
22' | NICCCCCCCOOOOOOOOOOOO | ESP 1- 0 FRA
Nico Williams does the job for Spain.
On the left again, but unlike the last two times, he was able to smash the back of the net.
Yamal found Oyarzabal, and the experienced striker played a cute pass at the edge of the box for Nico to go for the goal.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:21 PM
20' | Rabiot takes his chance
Despite space being there and having Mbappe waiting over the shoulder, Rabiot went for the shot.
It went over the goal.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:20 PM
18' | Save from Maignan
It is Nico Williams who made another run on the left for Spain. But his final shot was saved by Maignan. A bit awkward, but it was a good save.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:19 PM
17' | Save from Simon
Theo passed the ball to Doue on the left. Doue, full of confidence, after a record-breaking Champions League final, he made a cutback and went for a shot with his right foot.
Theo Hernandez, though he was not in full control while making the effort with his left foot, hit the crossbar. Simon would have been a spectator if that had gone in.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:12 PM
Two of the best young players in the world in action
Jun 5, 2025, 7:09 PM
8' | Easy save for Maignan
Nico Williams, on the left-hand side, made a good run. But his final effort went straight to Maignan.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:08 PM
7' | Chance for France
Demeble ran away with the ball and found Mbappe. But, unselfish Mbappe tried to find Rabiot and lost the plot.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:05 PM
4' | Theo takes his chance
Theo Hernandez took his chance to surprise Simon with a long-range shot. The shot went over the goal.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:04 PM
3' | Yamal with the first attack
As usual, Lamine Yamal looked to break through the right and then with a backheel found Pedro Porro, whose effort went straight to Maignan.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:01 PM
Kick-off!
France start things off!
Jun 5, 2025, 6:51 PM
They are ready too!
Calentamiento completado, los chicos a vestuarios.
— Equipe de France ⭐⭐ (@equipedefrance) June 5, 2025
Jun 5, 2025, 6:04 PM
Lineups | France
France Starting XI (4-2-3-1): M. Maignan, P. Kalulu, I. Konaté, C. Lenglet, T. Hernández, M. Koné, A. Rabiot, O. Dembélé, M. Olise, D. Doué, K. Mbappé (c)
Substitutes: Brice Samba, Lucas Chevalier, Lucas Hernández, Malo Gusto, Benjamin Pavard, Lucas Digne, Loïc Badé, Rayan Cherki, Warren Zaïre-Emery, Mattéo Guendouzi, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Bradley Barcola, Randal Kolo Muani, Marcus Thuram
Jun 5, 2025, 6:01 PM
Lineups | Spain
Spain (4-3-3): Unai Simón (c); Pedro Porro, Robin Le Normand, Dean Huijsen, Marc Cucurella; Mikel Merino, Martín Zubimendi, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Mikel Oyarzabal, Nico Williams
Subs: David Raya, Álex Remiro, Pau Cubarsí, Daniel Vivian, Fabián Ruiz, Gavi, Dani Olmo, Óscar Mingueza, Yéremy Pino, Alejandro Baena, Alejandro Grimaldo, Isco, Fermín López, Álvaro Morata, Samuel Aghehowa
France will miss the trio of Upamecano, William Saliba and Jules Kounde.
Jun 5, 2025, 5:40 PM
Team News: Spain
Luis de la Fuente's side will be without the current Ballon d'Or winner Rodri, who is still undergoing his recovery at Manchester City. Along with Rodri, Spain will also miss the services of Ferran Torres, who underwent surgery for appendicitis.
Jun 5, 2025, 5:40 PM
Spain vs France: Head-to-head stats
Till now, Spain and France have played 37 games against each other, including friendlies.
Spain have won 7 times while France have dominated with 13 wins. 17 games have ended in draws.
France, in those 37 games, have scored 66 goals, while Spain scored 40 goals.
Team
Wins
Draws
Matches
Goals Scored
France
13
17
37
66
Spain
7
17
37
40
Jun 5, 2025, 5:40 PM
How to watch the match?
Football fans from India can watch the Spain vs France UEFA Nations League 2024-25 semi-final match on Sony Sports Network TV Channel. They can also watch the match live on the Sony LIV app and website with a paid subscription.
Jio TV will also stream the match.
Jun 5, 2025, 4:50 PM
Match details
Match:Spain vs France
Tournament:UEFA Nations League 2024-25, semi-final.
UEFA Nations League 2025 semi-final: Spain vs France streaming details, head-to-head stats, possible playing XIs and more
Before the two European football giants go against each other, we bring you all the information you need ahead of the match of Spain vs France, UEFA Nations League 2025 semi-final.
Current European champions Spain will face France in the UEFA Nations League 2025 semi-final tonight in Germany. Before the two European football giants go against each other, we bring you all the information you need ahead of the match.
Match Details
Match: Spain vs France
Tournament: UEFA Nations League 2024-25, semi-final.
Date: 6 June 2025
Time: 12.30 am IST
Venue: MHP Arena, Germany.
How to watch the match?
Football fans from India can watch the Spain vs France UEFA Nations League 2024-25 semi-final match on Sony Sports Network TV Channel. They can also watch the match live on the Sony LIV app and website with a paid subscription.
Till now, Spain and France have played 37 games against each other, including friendlies.
Spain have won 7 times while France have dominated with 13 wins. 17 games have ended in draws.
France, in those 37 games, have scored 66 goals, while Spain scored 40 goals.
Team
Wins
Draws
Matches
Goals Scored
France
13
17
37
66
Spain
7
17
37
40
Team News: Spain
Spain are in a run of an impressive 20-game unbeaten run across all competitions (W15, D5) and are looking to become the first team to retain the UEFA Nations League since the tournament began in 2018.
But Luis de la Fuente's side will be without the current Ballon d'Or winner Rodri, who is still undergoing his recovery at Manchester City. Along with Rodri, Spain will also miss the services of Ferran Torres, who underwent surgery for appendicitis.
Real Betis captain Isco is in contention to make his senior Spain return since 2019. Meantime, Gavi will also be returning to the national side since 2013. Pau Cubarsi will also be returning to the squad after missing the previous international break through injury.
Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and Nico Williams, along with Mikel Oyarzabal, will lead Spain's attack.
— Selección Española Masculina de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) June 4, 2025
Team News: France
France, on the other hand, accumulated 13 points to finish top of League A Group 2. In the quarter-finals, they then made a huge comeback in the second leg to win from a 0-2 position against Croatia.
Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembele were the scorers for France that night before Mike Maignan saved a penalty kick to hand them a place in the semis.
— Equipe de France ⭐⭐ (@equipedefrance) June 3, 2025
Didier Deschamps will have Champions League player of the final, Desire Doue, and Champions League player of the season, Ousmane Dembele, at hand to go full throttle against Spain. However, in defence, he will miss Upamecano, William Saliba and Jules Kounde. Benjamin Pavard and Malo Gusto will then fight to replace them, alongside Ibrahim Konate being an obvious choice for the left-back role.
Kylian Mbappe, alongside Rayan Cherki, would be France's strikers' option for Deschamps.
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