Mbappe’s goal gives France edge to win Nations League title

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Kylian Mbappé on Sunday scored the winning goal as world champion France rallied to beat Spain 2-1 and win the Nations League title.

Mbappé scored 10 minutes before the end of the match.

Moments after France hit the post, Mikel Oyarzabal launched Spain into the lead, but his lead lasted less than two minutes before a powerful equaliser shot from Karim Benzema.

There was a VAR review of Mbappé’s possible offside second goal but was awarded because Spanish defender Eric Garcia was the last to touch the ball as he tried to intercept the French forward’s pass.

Mbappe and Benzema

Benzema, who recently returned to the France team after a five-year absence.

“This is the first piece of silverware I’ve won with France so I’m very proud and delighted.

“We played two top-level performances. We went out there to win the trophy so I’m delighted for the team as a whole and I’m proud as an individual.”

Mbappe has now scored in successive matches, after two goals in his previous 13 internationals.

Earlier in the day, European champions Italy had beaten Belgium 2-1 in the playoffs for third place.

Nicolo Barella’s thunderous goal and a converted penalty from Domenico Berardi brought some comfort to Italy after their defeat in the semifinals against Spain in Milan on Wednesday ended their record streak of 37 games without a defeat.

Belgium scored a consolation goal in the 86th minute when substitute Charles De Ketelaere shot in a quick counterattack.