Spain’s third consecutive UEFA Nations League final. The third straight international final for Luis de la Fuente, who led La Roja to victory in both of the previous two—at the European Championship and the last edition of the Nations League. The national team has been unbeaten since March 2023, and there’s little reason to believe that streak will end tonight.Between TikTok dance routines, Spain’s teenage sensations continue to enjoy themselves. Sure, their youthful flair can sometimes bring fans to the edge of a heart attack—like when France clawed back from 5–1 to 5–4—but it would be a mistake to take them lightly. Even when they’re not perfect, they can beat anyone. The mix of playful exuberance and De la Fuente’s firm, fatherly guidance has become a winning formula that’s captivated the entire nation.Portugal vs Spain for the Nations League title 🏆#NationsLeague pic.twitter.com/hdQbKGgvBK— UEFA EURO (@UEFAEURO) June 8, 2025 And as the team goes, so does its leader. A rare talent, a ball-handling choreographer both with and without the ball, whose shoulders haven’t even filled out yet—but who carries the weight of the game as if the whole world were feather-light. It’s impossible to say if Lamine Yamal will eventually be overwhelmed by fame, fortune, and the footballing world’s thirst for a new deity. For now, he seems like a once-in-a-generation phenomenon.“His maturity is unbelievable for his age. You’d be surprised how calmly he handles all of this. That’s what makes him special,” said De la Fuente, full of praise. He described himself as a fan of Yamal’s football, highlighting his intelligence, responsibility, and professionalism. The coach is convinced Yamal has everything it takes to become a legend—perhaps the greatest of them all.Luis de la Fuente: “Lamine Yamal? He is living this moment with peace of mind, we want him to continue like this.” pic.twitter.com/sZzkprkXER— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) June 7, 2025 Cristiano Ronaldo echoed that sentiment with a touching gesture, calling on the media and fans to give Yamal space to grow, for the sake of football itself. “Footballing legends are a universal treasure,” Ronaldo said.The Morata era as captain and leader is fading. Jesus Navas has already stepped away, and Dani Carvajal’s next chapter is uncertain. As Spain reshapes its leadership, it must also reinforce some unsettled positions—which may be the only real issue facing De la Fuente’s side. Without a true number nine, Mikel Oyarzabal is stepping up more and more in that role. Goals are still coming from all over the pitch, keeping opponents under constant pressure.Ego issues or words of wisdom? Cristiano thinks Yamal doesn’t deserve Ballon d’OrThe more pressing concern lies at right back. Pedro Porro struggled in the semifinal, with Barcola and Dembele giving him serious headaches—and he was the one who conceded the penalty that allowed Mbappe to score.UEFA NATIONS LEAGUEThird-place gameSunday 16.00: (2.40) Germany (3.70) France (2.75)FinalSunday 22.00: (3.80) Portugal (3.85) Spain (1.90)***odds are subject to change***
