Football clubs across Europe have always pulsed with the passion of the sport, but the UEFA Nations League has redefined the landscape of international football. This UEFA Nations League groundbreaking tournament has replaced mundane friendlies with a thrilling league-style format that features promotion, relegation, and golden opportunities to clinch coveted spots in major international competitions since 2018. This innovative structure has ramped up the intensity, making every match a high-stakes affair that genuinely matters to fans and teams alike. Excitement for the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League is building as fans anticipate thrilling matches and teams compete passionately for glory and a finals spot. With the quarter-finals just around the corner on March 20 and 23, 2025, anticipation is reaching fever pitch. The prospect of edge-of-your-seat action and unforgettable moments looms, especially with football giants like Spain, France, Germany, and Italy ready to clash. Their presence brings prestige to the UEFA Nations League tournament and guarantees a showcase of world-class talent and fierce competition. These nations, renowned for their rich footballing histories, will engage in thrilling two-legged ties to determine who moves on to the semi-finals. So, buckle up and stay tuned for the latest updates as the excitement unfolds in the world of sports!
Matchday 6 of the UEFA Nations League on November 17, 2024, was nothing short of thrilling, serving up a feast of unforgettable football that had fans on the edge of their seats! Armenia claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Latvia, while North Macedonia snuck past the Faroe Islands with a narrow yet exhilarating 1-0 win. Austria and Slovenia drew 1-1, Greece beat Finland 2-0, and Norway won 5-0 against Kazakhstan in the UEFA Nations League. England dominated Ireland 5-0 in a tense match with red card controversies. France secured a solid 3-1 win over Italy, and Israel surprised Belgium with a narrow 1-0 victory. Romania triumphed over Cyprus 4-1, while Spain narrowly defeated Switzerland 3-2 in a thrilling finish. The evening wasn’t without its share of drama; Bulgaria and Belarus ended in a tightly contested 1-1 draw, and Croatia and Portugal mirrored that suspense with their own 1-1 stalemate. In displaying remarkable tenacity, Kosovo took home a 1-0 win against Lithuania, featuring its red card highlight. Scotland wrapped up this electric day with a spirited 2-1 victory over Poland, embodying the fierce competitive spirit of European football. The UEFA Nations League is an exciting international football event filled with drama and high stakes!
San Marino triumphed over Liechtenstein with a 3-1 victory, while Serbia and Denmark ended their clash in a goalless 0-0 draw. Sweden put on a commanding display, securing a 6-0 win against Azerbaijan, and Hungary and Germany battled to a 1-1 draw in the UEFA Nations League. Montenegro showcased their dominance with a 3-1 victory against Türkiye, and Slovakia edged out Estonia with a narrow 1-0 win. Bosnia and Herzegovina held the Netherlands to a 1-1 draw, while Ukraine defeated Albania 2-1 in a hard-fought UEFA Nations League match. Czechia emerged victorious with a 2-1 win against Georgia, and Wales stunned Iceland with an impressive 4-1 performance. Meanwhile, Malta and Andorra concluded their match in a dramatic 0-0 draw, adding red card drama to the intensity. The day’s action was a testament to the competitive spirit and passion that defines the UEFA Nations League. As the tournament marches, the upcoming matches will likely deliver even more thrilling moments. Football reigns supreme, and the best is yet to come!
Upcoming Hurdles
Armenia vs. Georgia
Armenia clashes with Georgia on March 20, 2025, at Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium, Yerevan, Armenia, for the regular season in the UEFA Nations League 2024-25 season.
Standings
- Armenia—2nd in League C (Group 4)
- Georgia—3rd in League B (Group 1)
Previous Rivalry
In the Relegation Nations League, Armenia has shown potential but struggles with consistency. Their 2-1 victory against Latvia offers a confidence boost. Key to their success will be exploiting counterattacks against Georgia’s possession-focused style. This insight into Armenia’s past performances will help fans understand their strategy for the upcoming match.
Georgia enters this match after a 2-1 loss to the Czech Republic, reflecting their inconsistent form. While capable of brilliance, defensive lapses remain a challenge. Success hinges on their midfield’s control and exploiting spaces to quiet the home crowd. According to their performances, Armenia will have a solid home advantage in taking a victory.
Turkey vs. Hungary
For the regular season in the UEFA Nations League, Türkiye will face Hungary on March 20, 2025, at RAMS Park in Turkey.
Standings
- Turkiye—2nd in League B (Group 4)
- Hungary—3rd in League A (Group 3)
Previous Rivalry
The first leg at RAMS Park in Istanbul favors the hosts with a strong home record and a 52.2%-win probability. However, Hungary’s counterattacks could exploit Turkey’s away inconsistencies and defensive gaps.
Resilient in challenging games like their draw against Germany, with the potential to surprise at home. A Hungary win probability of 20.3% in the first leg highlights challenges, including inconsistency and a heavy loss to the Netherlands. Hence, Türkiye will have a slightly greater chance of making an edge.
Bulgaria vs. Ireland
In the UEFA Nations League showdown on March 20, 2025, Bulgaria is coming to blows with Ireland at Hristo Botev Stadium, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Standings
- Bulgaria—2nd in League C (Group 3)
- Ireland—3rd in League B (Group 2)
Previous Rivalry
With two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five matches, Bulgaria recently drew 1-1 with Belarus. Manager Ilian Iliev Dimov’s disciplined defense, counterattacks, and tactical adaptability could be key against Ireland.
After a tough 5-0 loss to England, Ireland aims to regroup and refocus against Bulgaria, using the setback as motivation to improve. The Irish manager aims to strengthen defense while leveraging counterattacks for opportunities. Thus, Ireland will have, without any doubt, to beat them in their upcoming matches.
Kosovo vs. Iceland
Kosovo will play Iceland on March 20, 2025, at Fadil Vokrri Stadium in Pristina for the regular season in the UEFA Nations League.
Standings
- Kosovo—2nd in League C (Group 2)
- Iceland—3rd in League B (Group 4)
Previous Rivalry
A strong home advantage in the first leg bolsters their confidence and performance. They remain a formidable opponent with a resilient squad capable of challenging higher-ranked teams. Addressing defensive vulnerabilities and inconsistency will be key to maintaining their dominance against Iceland.
Their disciplined and organized defense makes them formidable and hard to break down. While limited attacking options may challenge their goal-scoring, their resilience remains unwavering despite the slight disadvantage of starting away from home. This time, Kosovo will grab a win on their anticipation series.
Slovakia vs. Slovenia
In the UEFA Nations League run-in, the Slovakia are facing off with Slovenia on March 20, 2025, at Tehelne Pole, Bratislava, Slovakia.
Standings
- Slovakia—2nd in League C (Group 1)
- Slovenia—3rd in League B (Group 3)
Previous Rivalry
Slovakia’s recent form, with three wins, one draw, and one loss, has boosted their confidence as they prepare to face Slovenia. Slovakia’s 1-0 win against Estonia showed resilience, combining strong defense and attack to capitalize on home advantage in the Relegation Nations League.
Conversely, Slovenia enters the clash with inconsistent form, having two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five matches. A recent draw boosted confidence, but goal-scoring and defense remain concerns. Balancing both is key to facing Slovakia. Therefore, Slovenia will have a greater possibility of picking up on success.
Austria vs. Serbia
On March 20, 2025, Austria will confront Serbia at Ernst Happel Stadium, Vienna, Austria, in the UEFA Nations League moment of truth.
Standings
- Austria—2nd in League B (Group 3)
- Serbia—3rd in League A (Group 4)
Previous Rivalry
Austria has a solid home record, a balanced squad, and a 52.5%-win probability, but it is vulnerable to defensive lapses and pressure-induced mistakes against Serbia. Defensive lapses and home pressure may lead to errors against Serbia.
A resilient team with game-changing key players, ready to tackle even the most formidable opponents. Despite a 20.2%-win probability in the first leg, they proved their strength, rising above recent inconsistencies to deliver when it matters most. As we conclude, Austria will earn on their forthcoming series.
Ukraine vs. Belgium
Ukraine is squaring off with Belgium on March 20, 2025, at Estadio Nueva Condomina, Chura, Spain, in the UEFA Nations League 2024-25 season.
Standings
- Ukraine—2nd in League B (Group 1)
- Belgium—3rd in League A (Group 2)
Previous Rivalry
Ukraine recently claimed a crucial 2-1 away win against Albania, showcasing resilience in harsh conditions. Despite moments of brilliance in the Relegation Nations League, inconsistency and defensive issues have left them in a precarious spot. Facing a strong Belgian side, Rebrov must carefully balance defense and attack to secure vital points.
Belgium’s recent form has been poor, with four losses and a draw in their last five matches, including a 1-0 defeat to Israel. The team’s Nations League campaign suffers from poor attack and defense, and it is facing relegation pressure. The manager must rejuvenate the aging squad while integrating youth to spark a revival. As a result, Belgium will likely triumph in their upcoming matches over Ukraine.
Greece vs. Scotland
On March 20, 2025, Greece will conflict with Scotland at Georgios Karaiskakis Football Stadium, Piraeus, Greece, for the regular season in the UEFA Nations League.
Standings
- Greece—2nd in League B (Group 2)
- Scotland—3rd in League A (Group 1)
Previous Rivalry
Greece is in exceptional form, with impressive victories over strong teams like England and Finland. Their defense remains rock-solid, and they excel at exploiting counterattack opportunities. While high-pressing teams and structured defenses pose challenges, Greece can adapt and overcome these hurdles.
Scotland has demonstrated remarkable resilience, bolstered by the return of key players like Kieran Tierney and Lewis Ferguson. The integration of rising talents such as Lennon Miller and James Wilson strengthens their squad. While injuries to Lyndon Dykes and Ben Doak present challenges, Scotland has the depth and determination to adapt and continue their upward trajectory. Scotland will hold on to a win.
Netherlands vs. Spain
The Netherlands will face Spain on March 20, 2025, at Feyenoord Stadium, Rotterdam, Netherlands, in the quarter-final leg 1 of 2 in the UEFA Nations League 2024-25 season.
Standings
- Netherlands—2nd in League A (Group 3)
- Spain—1st in League A (Group 4)
Previous Rivalry
The Netherlands exceeded expectations by reaching the semi-finals of UEFA EURO 2024, ultimately falling to the eventual runners-up, England, in Dortmund. Under Ronald Koeman, the Oranje team shows strength despite securing only two wins in six 2024/25 UEFA Nations League matches against Bosnia-Herzegovina, Hungary, and Germany. Their potential remains evident.
Luis de la Fuente’s tenure as Spain’s boss kicked off with a setback against Scotland in March 2023, but La Roja has been unstoppable since then. Spain won the UEFA Nations League and the Euros, starting the season with a draw and ending with a 3-2 win over Switzerland, cheers to a last-minute penalty by Bryan Zaragoza. As we conclude, Spain will, without any doubt, make a winning streak.
Croatia vs. France
Croatia and France will meet on March 20, 2025, at Poljud Stadium in Split, Croatia, for the quarter-final leg 1 of 2 in the UEFA Nations League.
Standings
- Croatia—2nd in League A (Group 1)
- France—1st in League A (Group 2)
Previous Rivalry
Croatia is set to host the first leg at the Poljud Stadium in Split. Croatia boasts an impressive home record, having lost only one of its last seven matches. Veteran midfielder Luka Modrić is key for Croatia, which has five clean sheets in seven home games. Croatia hasn’t won in three matches, and Luka Sučić’s injury may impact the midfield, but they aim to perform well at home.
France is on a remarkable unbeaten streak in their last five matches, showcasing impressive performances, including a decisive 3-1 victory over Italy. With Kylian Mbappé back in the squad, they gain his exceptional goal-scoring talent and incredible pace. The team, featuring in-form players like Ousmane Dembélé and Adrien Rabiot, has won its last three away games. Despite Marcus Thuram’s ankle injury and Ibrahim Konaté’s uncertain status, the squad remains strong and ready for a top performance. Because of this, Croatia will have a solid home advantage in their upcoming matches.
Denmark vs. Portugal
On March 20, 2025, Denmark battles Portugal at Parken, Copenhagen, Denmark, for the quarter-final leg 1 of 2 in the UEFA Nations League.
Standings
- Denmark—2nd in League A (Group 4)
- Portugal—1st in League A (Group 1)
Previous Rivalry
Denmark will compete on home soil, which is undoubtedly a significant advantage for them. They are poised to capitalize on this first leg, especially since the second match will take place in Portugal. Denmark won a few of their six group-stage matches. Christian Eriksen, 33, is vital in midfield, with one goal and one assist this season.
Portugal faces a challenging away matchup, but their packed squad significantly enhances their chances. They’re on a strong momentum in the group stage. Cristiano Ronaldo has been called up again, with Martinez praising his contributions as the top goal scorer in the UEFA Nations League. Hence, Denmark will grab a victory.
Italy vs. Germany
Italy is at warfare with Germany on March 20, 2025, at San Siro Stadium, Milan, Italy, for quarter-final leg 1 of 2 in the UEFA Nations League 2024-25 season.
Standings
- Italy—2nd in League A (Group 2)
- Germany—1st in League A (Group 3)
Previous Rivalry
Italy showcased a remarkable performance on the group stage, finishing with an impressive 13 points, equal to the group winners France. However, a slight disadvantage in goal difference, by just one goal, placed them in second. Gli Azzurri scored 13 goals and conceded eight, with one loss to France. They won all three away matches and drew 2-2 with Belgium.
Germany confidently secured their place in the quarter-finals by dominating Group A3, finishing at the top. They went unbeaten in the group stage, scoring 18 goals and keeping clean sheets in half of their matches. They had two draws and a win in three away games, conceding only four goals. For this reason, Germany will have better standing power to secure a carry to the day.
