Three Subs, Nine Goals: Spain’s 5-4 Victory Costs Paddy Power Millions in Bookies’ Darkest Day

Spain’s 5-4 Thriller Against France Becomes Nightmare for Bookmakers
By Spencer Morgan

Football fans were treated to an unforgettable UEFA Nations League semi-final on Thursday as Spain edged France 5-4 in a chaotic, goal-filled clash. But for bookmaker Paddy Power, the match turned into a financial disaster, with the high-scoring drama and avalanche of substitutions costing the company "millions upon millions."

A Match for the Ages
The game lived up to its billing as a showdown between two football heavyweights. Spain stormed ahead with first-half goals from Nico Williams and Mikel Merino. After the break, Lamine Yamal extended the lead, followed by a Kylian Mbappé penalty and a strike from Pedri, pushing Spain to a commanding 5-1 advantage. France, however, launched a stunning late comeback with Rayan Cherki, Dani Vivian (an own goal), and Randal Kolo Muani narrowing the deficit to 5-4 in a frantic finish.

Spain’s players celebrate during their chaotic 5-4 win over France.

Punters Cash In Amid Chaos
While fans reveled in the spectacle, Paddy Power faced what a spokesperson called "one of the worst days in bookies’ history." The company’s "Super Sub" promotion—which keeps bets active if a player is substituted—backfired spectacularly due to 10 substitutions and a barrage of in-play incidents.

• Dani Vivian’s 64th-minute introduction for Robin Le Normand proved particularly costly. The defender immediately conceded a free-kick, triggering bets that reportedly paid out £500,000.
• Substitute Samu Aghehowa landed a shot on target late in the game, adding to the bookmaker’s losses.
• Even a 97th-minute yellow card for Gavi, who came on in stoppage time, drained an estimated £200,000 from Paddy Power’s coffers.

Dani Vivian’s foul after coming off the bench cost Paddy Power £500,000.

Super Sub Scheme Backfires
Paddy Power introduced the "Super Sub" feature to attract bettors, allowing wagers to transfer to replacement players. Over 973 matches, it had never backfired this severely. The combination of nine goals and constant tactical changes left the bookmaker reeling.

A spokesperson quipped: "I thought the Nations League was supposed to be boring? Fair play to the punters—they’ve pulled our pants down."

What’s Next?
Spain advances to the Nations League final, while Paddy Power licks its wounds. For football fans and bettors, though, this match will be remembered as a chaotic masterpiece—and a stark reminder of the risks bookies face when thrillers break out.

Featured Topics: Spain Football, France Football