5 games to look out for during final round of group games

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This year’s UEFA Nations League group stage comes to an end this weekend, with each team preparing for their final games.

And with it, some intriguing and important matches, not least for several of the British nations in action.

So as we head into the final round of group matches, here are some tasty-looking ties to sink your teeth into.

Poland v Scotland

Depending on how results go on Friday, Scotland could be travelling to Warsaw with their Nations League A status on the line.

The Tartan Army currently sit at the base of a group including Portugal and Croatia but it is against Poland on Monday where their fortunes will likely be decided.

Steve Clarke’s side have had a tough time of late, having failed to pick up a win since crashing out of Euro 2024 in the group stage. They will, however, be buoyed by a goalless draw at home to Portugal last time out and the knowledge that Nations League A survival is still in their own hands.

Italy v France

Mike Tyson might be making a somewhat unexpected return to the boxing ring on Saturday, but there are two more sporting heavyweights in action elsewhere this weekend.

A meeting between the teams that contested the 2006 World Cup final – yep, the one with that Zinedine Zidane red card – should be enough to whet the appetites of even the most indifferent international football fan. But with a Nations League group top-spot potentially up for grabs, the clash between two of the sport’s historical juggernauts gives this tie some added spice.

Italy ran out 3-1 winners in the reverse fixture in September and are currently unbeaten in a group that also includes Belgium and Israel. For the French, vengeance will be on their minds.

Greece v England

Defeat for England in Athens would make it impossible for them to top their Nations League B group and thus deny them an automatic return to the top tier of the competition next term.

The Three Lions will be expected to win the match but interim manager Lee Carsley, taking charge of his last camp before the arrival of Thomas Tuchel, has been hampered by several drop-outs from the squad: something that captain Harry Kane has been quick to hit out at.

Turkey v Wales

The top two sides in League B Group 4 go head to head in Kayseri with automatic promotion to Nations League A potentially up for grabs.

Both teams are so far undefeated this campaign and Wales manager Craig Bellamy will be hoping his team can continue their promising recent form.

But with the hosts boasting some of the finest young talent in world football, it will be no easy feat for the visitors. For the neutrals, however, it should be a cracker.

Liechtenstein v San Marino

Back in early September, history was made. San Marino won a competitive match for the very first time when 19-year-old Nicko Sensoli scored to give them a 1-0 against Liechtenstein. It was only their second ever victory – their first coming against the same opponents 20 years and 140 games prior – and the side ranked last in the FIFA world rankings have the chance to repeat that memorable moment on Monday.

Liechtenstein will of course be doing their utmost to ensure lightning does not strike twice, but any sports fans with a soft spot for the underdog may want to keep an eye on this one.




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