UEFA unveils Nations League knockout stage and play-offs draw

The final standings in the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League groups have now been confirmed, and attention will now begin to switch to the knockout stage and playoff formats of the competition.

The 2024/25 UEFA Nations League group stage was concluded during the November international break. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal and Euro 2024 winners Spain were among the teams to secure qualification for the knockout phase and the opportunity to lift the trophy in 2025.

A total of 30 European nations will participate across the knockout stage and playoff formats. Some of whom – including holders Spain – will be vying for the top prize, while others will either be pushing for promotion or fighting for survival.

Some heroic performances from Scotland over the final matchdays ensured they avoided automatic relegation to League B and will instead contest a relegation playoff tie. Belgium will also face a two-legged tie to determine which tier they will play in for the next campaign.

Quarter-Finals

Defending champions Spain and Euro 2024 victors will face the Netherlands in a rematch of the iconic 2010 World Cup final.

Meanwhile, Italy and Germany renew their historic rivalry in what promises to be one of the most captivating quarter-final clashes.

Germany and Spain secured their places with two matches to spare in October, while Portugal and France joined the lineup after advancing from their groups alongside Italy and the Netherlands.

Croatia and Denmark complete the quarter-final contenders, having clinched their spots with draws in their final fixtures.

Quarter-Final Draw
Netherlands vs Spain,
Croatia vs France,
Denmark vs Portugal,
Italy vs Germany

Semi-Final Pathways
Italy/Germany vs Denmark/Portugal
Netherlands/Spain vs Croatia/France

Leagu