The UEFA Nations League 2024-25 quarterfinals are set to deliver thrilling clashes as the draw was made on Friday, offering fans a glimpse of the high-stakes matchups ahead.
Reigning champions Spain face a challenging test against the Netherlands, while Italy will square off with Germany in what promises to be an electrifying contest. The remaining fixtures see Croatia take on France in a rematch of the 2018 World Cup final, and Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal facing Denmark.
Table of Contents
UEFA Nations League 2024-25 Quarterfinals Draw
- Netherlands vs. Spain
- Croatia vs. France
- Denmark vs. Portugal
- Italy vs. Germany
Spain vs Netherlands: A Clash of Two Footballing Titans
The defending UEFA Nations League 2023-24 champions, Spain, will face off against the Netherlands in one of the most anticipated encounters of the quarterfinals. With Spain’s tactical mastery and deep squad, they come into the match as slight favorites, but the Dutch will not be an easy challenge.
The Netherlands have shown consistency in recent years, and their attacking prowess, led by the likes of Memphis Depay and Cody Gakpo, can be a handful for Spain’s defense. Spain, on the other hand, have their own set of attacking talents, including the dynamic Dani Olmo and emerging star Lamine Yamal, who will play a key role in their offensive setup.
Both sides have a rich history in international tournaments, making this a highly intriguing tie. The match will be played over two legs, with Spain hosting the Netherlands in the second match, which could prove pivotal in determining the eventual winner.
Italy vs Germany: A Historic Rivalry Rekindled
Italy will meet Germany in a high-stakes clash that is bound to capture the imagination of football fans worldwide. This encounter is not only a battle between two of Europe’s footballing heavyweights but also a continuation of a long-standing rivalry that dates back decades.
Italy, under the guidance of Luciano Spalletti, will look to continue their progress after a disappointing absence from the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2024. With players like Nicolo Barella and Ciro Immobile in top form, Italy will be hoping to make a strong statement in this competition.
Germany, fresh off their bright and sparkling Euro 2024 campaign, have been very impressive under head coach Julian Naglesmann. The squad boasts an impressive blend of youth and experience, including stars like Joshua Kimmich, Jamal Musiala, and Kai Havertz. Germany’s depth in attack and midfield will give them the edge in this highly competitive encounter.
Croatia vs France: A Rematch of the 2018 World Cup Final
The quarterfinals also feature a rematch of one of the most memorable finals in recent history. Croatia, who were runners-up in the last edition of the Nations League, will face France in what promises to be a gripping encounter.
France, led by Didier Deschamps, will rely on their star-studded squad, including Kylian Mbappé and Bradley Barcola, to outclass their opponents. Croatia, who came agonizingly close to winning the World Cup in 2018, will be determined to finally capture a major title. Luka Modrić, Ivan Perišić, and Marcelo Brozović are expected to be pivotal in Croatia’s battle against the French.
Having faced off in the 2018 World Cup final, this encounter will undoubtedly evoke memories of that thrilling match, with both sides eager to prove their mettle once again on the international stage.
Portugal vs Denmark: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Quest for Glory
Portugal, led by their legendary captain Cristiano Ronaldo, will face Denmark in what promises to be a highly competitive clash. Portugal’s squad is teeming with talent, including Bruno Fernandes, Rafael Leao, and Bernardo Silva, and they will enter this match with high hopes of advancing to the semifinals.
Denmark, no strangers to big upsets, have a solid team under the leadership of coach Simon Kjær. With players like Rasmus Højlund, Christian Eriksen, Pierre-Emile Højbjerg, and Mikkel Damsgaard, Denmark will be looking to cause an upset and advance to the next round.
This encounter will be particularly significant for Ronaldo, who will be eyeing another international triumph as he seeks to lead his nation to glory, maybe for the last time. Denmark will need to keep a tight grip on the Portuguese attack to stand a chance in this heavyweight clash.
What to Expect from the Promotion and Relegation Playoffs
In addition to the quarterfinals, the draw also determined the fixtures for the promotion and relegation playoffs. These matches, scheduled for March 2025 (except for the League C/D matchups), will determine which teams will secure promotion to higher leagues and which will face relegation to lower tiers.
In the League A playoff, Turkey will battle Hungary for a place in the top tier for the next Nations League cycle, while Ukraine will face Belgium, Austria will meet Serbia, and Greece will take on Scotland.
Meanwhile, in League B/C, the pairings are as follows: Kosovo will face Iceland, Bulgaria will play the Republic of Ireland, Armenia will take on Georgia, and Slovakia will meet Slovenia.
At the bottom level, Gibraltar will face Latvia and Malta will play Luxembourg in League C/D, with the fixtures scheduled for March 2026.
With the quarterfinals of the UEFA Nations League 2024-25 set, football fans are in for an exciting series of matches. Spain vs Netherlands and Italy vs Germany are the standout fixtures, but all four quarterfinal matchups promise to be packed with drama and intensity. As these elite teams clash on the international stage, the road to the semifinals will be filled with high drama, unforgettable moments, and plenty of goals.
FAQs
How are the quarterfinals of the UEFA Nations League?
The quarterfinals will be played over two legs, with top-seeded teams hosting the second leg.
Which teams are in the UEFA Nations League 2024-25 quarterfinals?
Netherlands vs. Spain, Croatia vs. France, Denmark vs. Portugal, Italy vs. Germany
What other draws were made?
Promotion and relegation playoffs will take place in March 2025, except for League C/D, which will be in 2026.
Who plays in the League A promotion playoff?
Turkey vs. Hungary, Ukraine vs. Belgium, Austria vs. Serbia, Greece vs. Scotland.
