The UEFA Nations League is set to kick off on September 5, 2024, with Spain starting their title defense against Serbia. The tournament features 54 teams divided into four leagues based on their performance in the previous edition. The competition aims to replace meaningless friendlies with competitive matches against teams of similar rankings.
The format includes group stage matches, with promotion and relegation, followed by knockout rounds and a final tournament in June 2025. Winners of each league will earn prize money, with Spain, France, Portugal, Germany, and England among the favorites to win.
Notably, Russia is suspended from participating due to their invasion of Ukraine, while the tournament also serves as a partial qualifier for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The top 12 group winners will qualify directly for the World Cup, with runners-up entering the playoffs. This edition of the World Cup will see 48 teams participating for the first time.
Fans can follow the action through Al Jazeera Sport’s football page, with live updates and commentary available throughout the tournament. The UEFA Nations League offers an exciting opportunity for European teams to compete and qualify for the prestigious World Cup, with Spain looking to continue their success after winning the previous edition.
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Photo credit www.aljazeera.com
