Italy, France, and England have all secured their places in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Nations League after crucial victories and tense draws on a dramatic night of international football. While Italy took care of business in Brussels with a clinical 1-0 win over Belgium, France stumbled through a frustrating goalless draw with Israel in Paris. Meanwhile, England, playing without their captain Harry Kane, delivered a dominant 3-0 performance against Greece, which saw them leap to the top of Group B2.
Italy Clinch Quarter-Final Spot with Win Over Belgium
In Group A2, Italy’s compact and efficient performance against Belgium ensured their place in the Nations League last-eight, with the Azzurri edging out their hosts 1-0. The crucial moment came just 11 minutes into the match when fullback Giovanni Di Lorenzo’s cross deflected fortuitously into the path of midfielder Sandro Tonali, who made no mistake in tapping home.
Despite Belgium’s attempts to claw back into the game, including a header from Wout Faes that rattled the post in the second half, Italy held firm. “We showed again that we give it a go and don’t just sit back in matches,” Tonali said after the match. “That’s the big change in our approach.”With the win, Italy top their group by three points, though France could still challenge for first place when the two sides meet in Milan this Sunday.
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France Through Despite Frustrating Draw
Across the Channel, France were unable to break down a resolute Israel side in a 0-0 draw at the Stade de France. Despite 25 shots on goal, France struggled to find the back of the net, with goalkeeper Daniel Peretz proving to be a formidable barrier. France’s captain N’Golo Kanté had the first meaningful effort in the 20th minute, but Peretz was equal to his shot.
The match, held under tight security after recent tensions surrounding Israeli supporters in Europe, saw France’s frustrations mount. “Anger. Frustration,” said fullback Jules Koundé post-match. “But the only good thing tonight is that we’ve qualified.” Despite their lackluster display, France’s qualification was secured, but their stuttering form will be a concern for coach Didier Deschamps heading into their final match against Italy.
England’s Big Win Without Kane: Bellingham Stars in Athens
In Athens, England coach Lee Carsley made the bold decision to bench captain Harry Kane for their crucial clash with Greece, and it paid off in emphatic fashion. Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, stepping in for Kane, opened the scoring just seven minutes into the match. A quick break from Jude Bellingham set up Noni Madueke, who crossed for Watkins to slot home.
Despite some early pressure from Greece, including a powerful shot from Kostas Tsimikas that forced a diving save from Jordan Pickford, England took control. Bellingham, who was instrumental in midfield, came close to adding to the scoreline before he finally found the net with a stroke of fortune. His header hit the post but rebounded off Greek goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos and into the net in the 78th minute.
Substitute Curtis Jones, making his England debut, sealed the win five minutes later, ensuring a 3-0 victory. The win saw England top Group B2 on goal difference, tied with Greece on 12 points, but with a superior goal difference.
“We’re moving in the right direction,” said Carsley after the match. “We have a lot of outstanding talent.” With one match to go, England’s qualification now depends on maintaining their top spot and avoiding any surprises from their rivals.
Austria and Norway Remain Locked in Battle in Group B3
Elsewhere, Austria and Norway both secured victories in Group B3, ensuring they remain neck-and-neck for top spot in the group. Austria comfortably dispatched Kazakhstan 2-0, with Christoph Baumgartner and Michael Gregoritsch scoring early to capitalize on Kazakhstan’s first-half red card. Meanwhile, Norway thrashed Slovenia 4-1 with Erling Haaland on the scoresheet again, keeping the pressure on Austria. Both teams are level on points and separated only by goal difference, making for an exciting finish in the group.
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Looking Ahead: A Dramatic Finish Awaits
With Italy and France through to the quarter-finals, the attention now turns to the final matches of the group stages. Italy will face France in Milan in what promises to be a thrilling encounter for the top spot in Group A2, while England will look to seal their passage through against a Greece side that will be hoping to capitalize on any English slip-ups.
As the Nations League heads into its final phase, the stakes could not be higher. The next few days promise to bring more twists and turns in what has already been a captivating tournament.