Wales celebrated a remarkable 4-1 triumph over Iceland in their last UEFA Nations League group match, securing promotion to League A. The victory at Cardiff City Stadium was a significant milestone for manager Craig Bellamy, who preserved his unbeaten six-game streak. Although Wales fell behind early to a goal from Andri Gudjohnsen, they mounted a strong comeback led by Liam Cullen and Brennan Johnson, ensuring a decisive win and boosting their World Cup qualification hopes.
Germany and Hungary played out a 1-1 draw in their UEFA Nations League encounter in Budapest on November 19, 2024. Despite Germany already securing the top spot in the group prior to the match, they fielded a rotated squad, showcasing their squad depth with nine changes from their previous victory. Felix Nmecha scored his first international goal for Germany, while Dominik Szoboszlai equalised for Hungary with a penalty in stoppage time, after a VAR review. The game was marked by Germany's dominance in possession and Hungary's late resurgence, resulting in a shared point for both teams.
On 18th November 2024, Poland faced Scotland in a decisive UEFA Nations League match, resulting in a 1-2 loss and their relegation to a lower league for the first time ever. The game, held at PGE Narodowy stadium in Warsaw, was marked by early and late goals from Scotland, despite Poland's valiant efforts, including an equalising goal by Kamil Piątkowski. With changes following a loss to Portugal, Poland finished bottom of their group, aiming now to rebuild for future competitions.
Scotland secured a crucial victory over Poland with a 2-1 win at the National Stadium in Warsaw, saving their UEFA Nations League A status. Early scoring by John McGinn and a decisive stoppage-time goal by Andy Robertson helped Scotland avoid relegation and set up potential playoff qualifications. Despite Poland's efforts, Scotland's resilience and strategic gameplay under coach Steve Clarke shone through. The match highlighted promising performances from young talents like Ben Doak, offering hope for Scotland's future in upcoming competitive fixtures.
Spain emerged victorious with a 3-2 win against Switzerland in their final UEFA Nations League Group A4 match. The match, held on 18th November 2024 in Tenerife, saw Spain advance to the quarter-finals while Switzerland faced relegation to League B. The game featured exciting moments including three penalties, with Spain securing their win in injury time.
Croatia and Portugal played out a thrilling 1-1 draw in the UEFA Nations League 2024-25, securing both teams' progression to the quarterfinals. The match saw Joao Felix and Josko Gvardiol score for Portugal and Croatia, respectively, in a closely contested encounter. The result confirmed Portugal as group winners of League A Group 1, while Croatia advanced as runners-up, setting the stage for thrilling quarterfinal matches.
San Marino, traditionally seen as one of the lowest-ranked international football teams, has achieved an unprecedented promotion to League C of the UEFA Nations League. On 18 November 2024, the team made history by securing their first-ever away win against Liechtenstein with a 3-1 scoreline, also marking the first time they have scored three goals in a competitive match. This victory was driven by second-half goals from Lorenzo Lazzari, Nicola Nanni, and Alessandro Golinucci, securing San Marino the top spot in Group D1 with seven points and ending their winless streak. Coach Roberto Cevoli commends his team's resilience and hard work, as they now look forward to competing against stronger teams in the next edition of the Nations League.
Israel secured a surprising 1-0 victory against Belgium in the UEFA Nations League at the Bozsik Arena. Yarden Shua's late goal ended Israel’s winless streak and delivered an unexpected blow to Belgium, whose struggles were highlighted despite dominating the first half. Israel was relegated despite the win, illustrating the dramatic shifts in European football dynamics.
France clinched a top position in UEFA Nations League Group A2 after defeating Italy 3-1 at San Siro on November 17, 2024. Celebrating Adrien Rabiot's 50th appearance, France avenged their earlier defeat with a resounding victory, thanks to goals from Rabiot and a decisive own goal by Italy's goalkeeper. Despite a spirited Italian comeback, France's defence, led by goalkeeper Mike Maignan, held firm to finish the group stage ahead on goal difference, advancing alongside Italy to the quarter-finals.
Lee Carsley ended his interim role as England's head coach with a decisive 5-0 win against the Republic of Ireland at Wembley, ensuring the team's promotion to the UEFA Nations League's top tier. The match saw a pivotal second half following a sluggish start. Liam Scales' sending off for a foul on Jude Bellingham led to a breakthrough penalty converted by Harry Kane. Subsequent goals from Anthony Gordon, Conor Gallagher, Jarrod Bowen, and Taylor Harwood-Bellis secured the victory. Carsley reflected positively on his tenure and the promising future under incoming coach Tuchel.