UEFA Nations League 2024/25 Quarter-Finals Are Set as Croatia and Denmark Secure Their Spots

The UEFA Nations League 2024/25 group stage has delivered high-octane drama as Croatia and Denmark joined France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain in the League A quarter-finals.

After months of intense competition, the top two teams from each group secured their places in the next stage, while others faced relegation or a battle for survival.

UEFA Nations League 2024/25 Quarter-finals

1. Croatia
2. Denmark
3. France
4. Germany
5. Italy
6. Netherlands
7. Portugal
8. Spain

Group A1: Croatia Edge Out Scotland in Tight Finish

Group A1 saw Croatia and Portugal progress, with Scotland narrowly missing out despite a valiant effort. A 1-1 draw between Croatia and Portugal in Split confirmed both teams’ advancement.

Joško Gvardiol’s decisive second-half header canceled out João Félix’s opener, ensuring Croatia’s position as runners-up. Meanwhile, Andy Robertson’s last-gasp winner against Poland spared Scotland from relegation. However, Poland’s Matchday 6 loss sealed their demotion to League B.

Group A2: France Overcome Italy to Claim Top Spot

France showcased their resilience with a statement victory over Italy in Milan, overturning their Matchday 1 defeat.

Adrien Rabiot’s brace powered Les Bleus to a 3-1 win, clinching the group’s top position. While Israel managed their first win of the campaign against Belgium, they ended the group at the bottom, unable to escape relegation.

Group A3: Netherlands and Germany Dominate

Group A3 belonged to the Netherlands and Germany, both demonstrating formidable performances. The Netherlands booked their spot in the last eight with a commanding 4-0 triumph over Hungary.

Meanwhile, Germany topped the group emphatically, demolishing Bosnia and Herzegovina 7-0. Hungary, who placed third, now face a play-off for survival, while Bosnia have been relegated to League B.

Group A4: Denmark Join Spain in Knockout Stage

Denmark delivered a gritty performance in Group A4, holding Serbia to a goalless draw in Leskovac. Kasper Schmeichel’s vital saves thwarted Serbia, whose hopes were further dashed when Strahinja Pavlović was sent off in the dying minutes.

Meanwhile, Spain edged Switzerland 3-2 in Tenerife, with Bryan Zaragoza converting a late penalty to seal the win. Spain had already confirmed their quarter-final place on Matchday 5, while Switzerland faced relegation.

Understanding League A: Format and Stakes

The Nations League’s League A featured 16 elite teams, divided into four groups. Each team played six matches, with group outcomes determining their fates:

• Top Two Teams: Advanced to the two-legged quarter-finals in March 2025.
• Third-Place Teams: Entered promotion/relegation play-offs against League B runners-up.
• Bottom Teams: Relegated to League B.

Key Dates to Remember

As the tournament progresses, fans can look forward to the following schedule:

• Knockout Round Play-Off Draw: 22 November 2024
• Knockout Round Play-Offs: 20–23 March 2025
• League A Quarter-Finals: 20–23 March 2025
• Final Tournament: 4–8 June 2025

What Lies Ahead

The stage is now set for an exhilarating quarter-final phase, as Europe’s top teams battle for the prestigious Nations League title. With standout performances from seasoned veterans and rising stars alike, fans can expect memorable moments and fierce competition as the tournament progresses toward the finals in June 2025.

What’s Next?

• Through to the Quarter-Finals: Croatia, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain
• League A/B Play-Offs: Belgium, Hungary, Scotland, Serbia
• Relegated to League B: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Israel, Poland, Switzerland

As the tournament progresses, these outcomes promise both fierce matchups and redemption opportunities, with every team striving to leave their mark on this marquee event.

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