STUTTGART, GERMANY —
Kylian Mbappe delivered a standout performance on Sunday as France defeated Germany 2-0 in the UEFA Nations League bronze-medal match, adding another historic milestone to his career with his 50th international goal.
Mbappe was instrumental in securing third place for Les Bleus, scoring the opener just before half-time and assisting the second goal late in the match. The victory underlined France’s squad depth and tactical strength, even after their semi-final loss to Spain.
Mbappe Magic Lifts France to Victory
Despite Germany’s early dominance, Mbappe made the difference. Just before the break, the Real Madrid star latched onto a floating pass over Joshua Kimmich, controlled it, and fired home through a crowded box to give France the lead.
In the second half, with Germany pushing for an equalizer, Mbappe capitalized on a loose pass from Robin Koch, surging forward at blistering speed before laying it off to Michael Olise, who calmly finished to double the advantage.
“He’s a very important player for us,” said Aurelien Tchouameni, praising his club and national teammate. “When he plays like this, it’s just amazing.”
Germany’s Wastefulness Costs Them
For Germany, the result raised questions about their progress under manager Julian Nagelsmann. Despite dominating possession and creating multiple chances, they failed to convert key moments. Karim Adeyemi won a penalty that was later overturned by VAR, while Florian Wirtz and Marcus Thuram both hit the post.
Striker Niclas Fuellkrug expressed frustration:
“If we had taken our first chance and scored, it could have been three or four-nil for us.”
Tactical Rotation From Both Managers
Both teams made heavy rotations. Didier Deschamps changed eight players from the semi-final, keeping only Mbappe, Mike Maignan, and Adrien Rabiot in the starting XI. Nagelsmann made four changes, including starting Nick Woltemade, who was later subbed off for Deniz Undav.
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Though Undav found the net shortly after coming on, his goal was disallowed for a foul during the buildup.
France Ends Nations League on a High
The win ensures France finishes third in the 2025 Nations League, while questions loom over Germany’s preparation for the 2026 World Cup. Mbappe’s performance not only highlighted his leadership but also reinforced his status as one of the most prolific goal scorers in international football.
Later Sunday, attention turned to Spain vs Portugal in Munich, where the Nations League final took place.
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