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We are at the end of another entertaining UEFA Nations League tournament. In the heavyweight final, Spain and France will go head to head at the San Siro. Both nations have impressed throughout the 2020-21 Nations League campaign, enthralling fans and critics alike with impressive displays.
In the semi-finals, Spain defeated Euro champions Italy 2-1 and ended the Italians' record 37-game unbeaten streak. Ferran Torres scored twice to ensure victory for Spain, helping Luis Enrique's team get a step closer to glory.
In the other semi-final, France dispatched Belgium in a thrilling encounter which saw the French come back from 2-0 down to win 2-3.
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As they gear up for the final, both Spain and France realize that there is no room for error in this high voltage clash. With high stakes and a chance for glory, both teams will fight tooth and nail for silverware after a disappointing Euro campaign.
Today, we will give our five predictions for the final. Without further ado, let us take a look at
Top 5 Predictions for Spain vs France
#5 Mikel Oyarzabal to continue his good form
With a sensational start to the new campaign, Mikel Oyarzabal is proving to be one of the best forwards in La Liga. In just eight league games, the winger has scored six goals while providing one assist for Real Sociedad. Oyarzabal's exploits have propelled the club into an early push for La Liga glory.
The 24-year old had a quiet night against valiant Italian defenders in the semi-finals but his presence remains a huge boost for Spain. Oyarzabal's penchant for scoring is something which can trouble the French defense and make a difference in this crucial encounter.
Oyarzabal is also known for creating chances and space in the final third with his caliber. He will be hungry for goals and to lead Spain's attack in this epic encounter.
#4 Unai Simon to get the nod ahead of David De Gea again
Unai Simon remains the first choice for Luis Enrique's Spain. The Atletico Bilbao goalkeeper has been an integral part of Spain since David De Gea's dismal showing at the 2018 World Cup. The 24-year old rarely makes any errors between the sticks and has proven to be reliable for Spain under pressure.
Meanwhile, there is no doubt that David De Gea is still world class. The Manchester United shot-stopper has been in good form, proving his worth in the Premier League and UEFA Champions League so far. Despite his good form, Luis Enrique is unlikely to make any changes in such a high voltage encounter.
#3 Three-man defence will not work for France
Didier Deschamps tweaked France's formation in the semi-finals against Belgium, which saw the French start with a three-man defense. The defense included Raphael Varane, Jules Kounde and Lucas Hernandez. Their formation had two wing-backs - Theo Hernandez and Benjamin Pavard - supporting the defense. The move heavily backfired for France as they conceded two goals in the first-half against Belgium.
Despite the individual quality of French defenders, fielding a three-man defense will again help Spain. Jules Kounde looks like a fish out of the water in the right centre-back position. Moreover, the likes of Raphael Varane and Lucas Hernandez are failing to close gaps in the defense.
Spain could sense extra space to take advantage of it during their attacks if France do not enhance their defensive shape.
#2 Spain to dominate midfield battle
Spanish wonderkid Gavi made headlines after a sensational performance against Italy in their previous match. Gavi displayed his talent, playing alongside veterans Sergio Busquets and Koke. With Busquets' intelligence, Koke's aggression and Gavi's playmaking, Luis Enrique has seemed to have found the perfect recipe in midfield.
Meanwhile, France are banking on Paul Pogba to run the show and help with their star-studded attack. But the Manchester United midfielder gets little support from Rabiot, who is not up to the mark. Despite his brilliance, Pogba might not be enough to contain and counter Spain's balanced midfield.
Spain are likely to keep the ball as long as they can whereas France is expected to play a counter-attacking style of football. With a player of Kante's caliber not in the team due to an ankle injury, the Spaniards will edge ahead in the midfield battle.
#1 France to take home their first Nations League trophy
With the two nations fighting to attain the trophy, there is little to separate them on paper. The quality of both Spain and France is top notch, with their powerful performances depicting their superiority in the Nations League campaign. While France showed their strong mentality, Spain have managed to win the confidence of fans and critics alike with their performance.
In their last four meetings, both teams have managed to get the better of one another. Yet France's experience, along with their quality in attack, keeps them favorites to lift the title. With the likes of Karim Benzema, Kylian Mbappe and Griezmann in their ranks, France can change the tie in the blink of an eye.
If the French players perform to their potential, they are likely to outscore and lift their first Nations League trophy.
