France outclassed Italy, Israel shocked Belgium, and England thrashed Ireland as the Nations League group stage concluded with thrilling matches and unexpected twists across Europe.
The final matchday of the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 group stage was full of excitement for football fans across Europe. Top teams fought hard for pride and positions, delivering plenty of goals and we have seen some unexpected results. France dominated Italy ay San Siro, Israel shocked Belgium, and England defeated Ireland at Wembley. Here’s a quick look at all the action happened on Sunday night in the European International football.
Italy 1-3 France: Rabiot and Digne shine as France tops group
At the San Siro, France defeated Italy 3-1 to finish atop their Nations League group on goal difference. Adrien Rabiot opened the scoring early, heading in Lucas Digne’s pinpoint corner. Digne’s stunning free-kick later deflected off the crossbar and Italy’s goalkeeper to double France’s lead.
Italy clawed one back when Andrea Cambiaso volleyed in Federico Dimarco’s lofted pass, but France responded swiftly. Rabiot’s second header, courtesy of another Digne assist, sealed the game. Despite the loss, both teams await their quarterfinal opponents, with the Nations League resuming in March.
Israel 1-0 Belgium: Shua’s late strike stuns Belgium
In a surprising upset, Israel defeated Belgium 1-0 to secure their first group win. A cagey first half saw Israel hit the woodwork twice, while Belgium’s best chance came from Dodi Lukebakio’s wide attempt.
The second half seemed destined for a draw until Shua capitalised on a scrappy play in the Belgian box. His composed finish past goalkeeper Koen Casteels in the 86th minute ensured a historic win for Israel, while Belgium’s group stage campaign ended without a single victory.
England 5-0 Ireland: Dominant win for the hosts
England returned to Nations League A in style with a 5-0 win over Ireland at Wembley. After a tight first half, the game turned when Ireland’s Liam Scales received a red card. Harry Kane’s penalty opened the gates, followed by goals from Anthony Gordon, Conor Gallagher, Jarrod Bowen, and Taylor Harwood-Bellis.
Jude Bellingham stole the show, winning Kane’s penalty and assisting the final two goals. England’s win signals a strong start to their Thomas Tuchel era ahead of March’s World Cup qualifiers, while Ireland focuses on rebuilding for the same.
Other results in UEFA Nations League
- Norway 5-0 Kazakhstan: Norway dominated with a relentless attacking display.
- Finland 0-2 Greece: Greece secured a vital away win.
- Austria 1-1 Slovenia: Both sides shared the spoils in a hard-fought draw.
- North Macedonia 1-0 Faroe Islands: A narrow win for the hosts.
- Latvia 1-2 Armenia: Armenia edged out Latvia in a close encounter.
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