The draw for the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League has served up some mouthwatering clashes, with Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portugal facing a tough test in Group A1 alongside Poland, Croatia, and Scotland.
England, relegated to League B after last year’s campaign, will encounter familiar foes in the Republic of Ireland, adding spice to their group stage schedule. Meanwhile, League A also features a “group of death” with powerhouses France, Italy, and Belgium locked in a battle for supremacy.
Key takeaways: UEFA Nations League draw
League A:
- Ronaldo faces familiar foes: Portugal, led by the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo, will clash against Poland, Croatia, and Scotland in Group A1. This group promises exciting encounters, with Poland looking to upset the established order and Scotland aiming to prove their mettle at the higher level.
- Group of death: League A witnesses a potential thriller in Group A2, where France, Italy, and Belgium find themselves pitted against each other. These European giants boast exceptional talent and fierce rivalries, guaranteeing high-octane matches.
- Spain seeks repeat: The reigning champions, Spain, are placed in Group A4 alongside Denmark, Switzerland, and Serbia. While Spain remains the favorite, these teams can’t be underestimated, especially on home soil.
League B:
- England vs. Ireland rivalry reignited: English and Irish fans are in for a treat as their teams will face off in Group B2. This first competitive encounter since 1991 is bound to be charged with historical significance and passionate support.
- Having dropped down from League A, England needs to prove their mettle in League B. Finland, Greece, and the Republic of Ireland present challenges, but the Three Lions will be expected to dominate.
UEFA Nations League draw:
LEAGUE A IN FULL
Group A1: Croatia, Portugal, Poland, Scotland.
Group A2: Italy, Belgium, France, Israel.
A3 Group: Netherlands, Hungary, Germany, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Group A4: Spain, Denmark, Switzerland, Serbia.
LEAGUE B IN FULL
Group B1: Czechia, Ukraine, Albania, Georgia.
Group B2: England, Finland, Republic of Ireland, Greece.
B3 Group: Austria, Norway, Slovenia, Kazakhstan.
Group B4: Wales, Iceland, Montenegro, Turkey.
Looking ahead – Nations League
The UEFA Nations League kicks off in September, with the group stage concluding in November. The knockout stages follow in March 2025, culminating in the final in June. With exciting matchups and national pride at stake, the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League promises to be a captivating spectacle for football fans across Europe.
So, who will reign supreme in each league? Can Cristiano Ronaldo lead Portugal to another title? Will England bounce back in League B? The answers will unfold on the pitch in the coming months, making the UEFA Nations League a must-watch event for football enthusiasts.
Editors pick
