France look to reach the final of the 2025 UEFA Nations League as they face a red-hot Spain side enjoying arguably their best form since winning the 2010 World Cup. While Les Bleus rely heavily on the individual brilliance of their attackers to make the difference, they must do so without a key figure who has long orchestrated their play: Antoine Griezmann.
Griezmann, once considered by many the best player on the French national team — and a deserving Ballon d’Or candidate in 2018 after leading Atlético Madrid to a Europa League title — was instrumental in France’s World Cup triumph in Russia. Many still view him as the standout performer of that tournament, especially in the final.
Now, France take the pitch without a natural playmaker like Griezmann or the long-absent Paul Pogba, who once served as his midfield counterpart. In the meantime, Les Bleus will rely on their world-class attacking options, including Kylian Mbappe and Ballon d’Or contender Ousmane Dembele.
Emerging talent Desire Doue is also expected to feature and could play a significant role off the bench. His presence adds another layer of intrigue to the matchup, especially as he goes up against Spain’s own teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal. With Spain’s youthful squad full of hunger and momentum, this semifinal promises to deliver fireworks.
Antoine Griezmann of France celebrates with the World Cup Trophy following his sides victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia
Why isn’t Antoine Griezmann playing tonight?
Griezmann is not available for today’s clash against Spain because he was not included in the squad — a direct result of his international retirement in September 2024. His absence marks the end of a legendary chapter for French soccer.
During his international career, Griezmann won three major trophies with France: the UEFA European Under-19 Championship (2010), the FIFA World Cup (2018), and the UEFA Nations League (2020–21). He retires from international duty with 137 caps and 44 goals over a ten-year span — a legacy that will forever be etched in French soccer history.
