⚽ UEFA Nations League ⚽ - Discussion Thread

[Oluwa-btc]

The Nations League kicks off today. The Turkey vs. France match is tomorrow. It will be very difficult for Türkiye to advance from this group if they did, it would likely be a miracle. France will undoubtedly finish first in the group. In terms of squad value, France’s team is probably worth two or three times that of the Turkish national team. So, to be realistic, I’d settle for a draw. To be honest, even a draw would come as a surprise to me.

Yeah! And I'll be banking on the Dutch to have the win against Germans tonight. I also think the final scoreline would be 2 goals to 1.
Turkey versus France should be interesting, first time managing the French national team. Turkey might be at home in front of their home fans but this game should be for the French and they should win by a landslide. My hunches also tells me this should result to 1-3 France winning their first international game after thr fifa world cup tournament and also under Zidane. I will try to enjoy every round rather than keep on predicting the who emerges on top of their respective group standing.

[Jostern]

‎
‎I'm expecting Portugal to win Wales in this match, the match will be an easy match for Portugal.
‎portugal is actually a very good team and they have a very good squad so I expect them to make this match very easy.
‎one problem this Portugal team is having is that they are not working as a team, they have the best midfield in the world but in the world cup this midfielders did not perform very well, they actually disappointed a lot of people, I really don't know why they are not putting the effort they usually put in their team to there country.
‎

I think Portugal will start the Nations League with a win over Wales. Portugal are noticeably stronger in terms of their squad, with quality players in almost every area of the pitch. After their disappointing performance at the 2026 World Cup, the team will surely be extra motivated. However, Portugal did have problems with the players’ coordination during the World Cup, and I hope the new coach, Jorge Jesus, will be able to solve this issue.
Wales are going through a difficult period at the moment and rarely win. Therefore, I expect Portugal to take control of the game from the start and create enough chances to secure the victory.

I don’t really see anything that is going to give them an extra motivation it’s just the Nations League and most players doesn’t take this games seriously, I don’t take this games seriously as well it’s just like a friendly game, because those games are just something else, no doubt that Portugal have a very good and strong squad but they were very disappointing at the World Cup, I keep asking myself what Portugal is doing they keep inviting Ronaldo to the National Team, I think it’s time they stop inviting him so he can eventually retire, he isn’t helping the team anymore, he needs to give room for other new and young talented players to come into the team.

[Juicyhome]

Yes Portugal is the favorite against Wales, but I disagree with the bookmakers' odds. I consider Wales a solid, mid level team, so I don't expect a many goals in this match. I also disagree with Jesus's decision, I don't think Portugal needs Ronaldo, it was evident at the World Cup that he brings no benefit to the team. I’m also keen to see how Germany plays its first official match under Klopp, and I hope they can beat the Netherlands, I also think both teams will score in this match.

If Portugal doesn't need Ronaldo they won't had invited him at age 41 years , Ronaldo is Portugal without, Ronaldo Portugal won't had been on football map, he dedicated his life to Portugal and you're here saying Portugal doesn't need him, tell me any player in the Portugal team that's fit and in form than Ronaldo? He's still very much needed in Portugal football team, I believe he will perform well tonight and he will still score, just don't bother for your hate wash because Ronaldo will shock you tonight,  he was born for this game of football.  He has won the national league trophy last time and he will defend it with Portugal again.  Beside all I want Ronaldo to do is to reach the 100 goals  before retirement.

[Shadiq]

Yeah! And I'll be banking on the Dutch to have the win against Germans tonight. I also think the final scoreline would be 2 goals to 1.
Turkey versus France should be interesting, first time managing the French national team. Turkey might be at home in front of their home fans but this game should be for the French and they should win by a landslide. My hunches also tells me this should result to 1-3 France winning their first international game after thr fifa world cup tournament and also under Zidane. I will try to enjoy every round rather than keep on predicting the who emerges on top of their respective group standing.

The outcome of the German and Dutch match may be controversial at the moment, because the match will not be as easy as you think. The Netherlands are a strong team, there is no doubt about that, on the other hand, we cannot underestimate Germany. I expect the team to make a comeback, especially under Klopp. If the German team makes a comeback, then they will have a chance to win at home to the Netherlands.

If Germany carries the form of the World Cup, then the Netherlands will have a high chance of winning. I will not rush to predict the outcome of the match right now, but I expect a great fight. The match could end in a draw or a win-loss with a short interval.

[Unsoldier]

I told you that something looked strange here. As kick-off time approaches, the odds have shifted. A lot of people are betting on Germany. Netherlands looked like the favorite yesterday, but now Germany's winning odds are lower. That's exactly how it should be.
I think this match could resemble their 2024 Nations League game. That match ended 2-2. Netherlands doesn't sit back too much at home, they'll play more aggresive, if Germany plays same, we could see goals from both sides. Over 2.5 goals makes sense to me. The odds aren't too low either. I think it's worth a try.

Goals from both are expected in this game, because both teams have an aggressive attack and would want to win their first game too. I would not predict a straight win for either side because it's not certain which team would win the match, GG or Over 2.5 goals would be the best option to play.

Netherland have a more coordinated defense compared to Germany, so it's also be safe to say that Netherlands could be the favorites to win this game if the attack is solid.

The Netherlands vs. Germany match is, of course, the main game of the day. Both teams had disappointing World Cup campaigns in 2026 and are now starting a new chapter with new coaches. At the same time, both teams have strong attacks and are capable of creating plenty of chances. I wouldn’t risk picking a winner, as it’s difficult to assess their current form after the coaching changes. So I prefer the goals market here — I think the teams are quite capable of producing more than three goals in total.

[Shussainshah]

Yes Portugal is the favorite against Wales, but I disagree with the bookmakers' odds. I consider Wales a solid, mid level team, so I don't expect a many goals in this match. I also disagree with Jesus's decision, I don't think Portugal needs Ronaldo, it was evident at the World Cup that he brings no benefit to the team. I’m also keen to see how Germany plays its first official match under Klopp, and I hope they can beat the Netherlands, I also think both teams will score in this match.

If Portugal doesn't need Ronaldo they won't had invited him at age 41 years , Ronaldo is Portugal without, Ronaldo Portugal won't had been on football map, he dedicated his life to Portugal and you're here saying Portugal doesn't need him, tell me any player in the Portugal team that's fit and in form than Ronaldo? He's still very much needed in Portugal football team, I believe he will perform well tonight and he will still score, just don't bother for your hate wash because Ronaldo will shock you tonight,  he was born for this game of football.  He has won the national league trophy last time and he will defend it with Portugal again.  Beside all I want Ronaldo to do is to reach the 100 goals  before retirement.

Before Cristiano Portugal didn't win any single trophy so that's what's its is Cristiano is Portugal and Portugal is Ronaldo I agree with that's statement but at current modern football I think Cristiano need to give some chance to the future players I know without Cristiano it's very difficult for Portugal but right now if they didn't give chances to the future player I think they will take alot of time to rebuild that's Portugal team. Currently the new manager is look like they know how to secure Portugal team future so that's the reason Ronaldo stay more on the bench.

[DYOR+BTC]

‎
‎I'm expecting Portugal to win Wales in this match, the match will be an easy match for Portugal.
‎portugal is actually a very good team and they have a very good squad so I expect them to make this match very easy.
‎one problem this Portugal team is having is that they are not working as a team, they have the best midfield in the world but in the world cup this midfielders did not perform very well, they actually disappointed a lot of people, I really don't know why they are not putting the effort they usually put in their team to there country.
‎

I think Portugal will start the Nations League with a win over Wales. Portugal are noticeably stronger in terms of their squad, with quality players in almost every area of the pitch. After their disappointing performance at the 2026 World Cup, the team will surely be extra motivated. However, Portugal did have problems with the players’ coordination during the World Cup, and I hope the new coach, Jorge Jesus, will be able to solve this issue.
Wales are going through a difficult period at the moment and rarely win. Therefore, I expect Portugal to take control of the game from the start and create enough chances to secure the victory.

I don’t really see anything that is going to give them an extra motivation it’s just the Nations League and most players doesn’t take this games seriously, I don’t take this games seriously as well it’s just like a friendly game, because those games are just something else, no doubt that Portugal have a very good and strong squad but they were very disappointing at the World Cup, I keep asking myself what Portugal is doing they keep inviting Ronaldo to the National Team, I think it’s time they stop inviting him so he can eventually retire, he isn’t helping the team anymore, he needs to give room for other new and young talented players to come into the team.

If you begin to underestimate the performance of Ronaldo in that Portuguese team I think you don't understand football or you are saying because you are messi's fan. Even a blind man can tell you that Ronaldo's performance was a perfect one if not for the weakness they experienced in their midfield. On  this last concluded World Cup we all know what happened was because there was poor condition in the midfield and  that contributed to the reason why the front line couldn't receive ball the way it was supposed to be. If they where distributing the ball as expected,  Portugal would have gone far or even win the world cup because they where considered favourite even before the start of the game

[paco92x]

Brobbey is leading the attack for the Netherlands, and after the first 15 minutes of play, he will surely make it difficult for Tah and Schlotterbeck. He has already blocked the goalkeeper and created a chance for Van Dijk, but unfortunately, it was a foul. I can see him getting on the scoresheet tonight.

[ingiltere]

If you begin to underestimate the performance of Ronaldo in that Portuguese team I think you don't understand football or you are saying because you are messi's fan. Even a blind man can tell you that Ronaldo's performance was a perfect one if not for the weakness they experienced in their midfield. On  this last concluded World Cup we all know what happened was because there was poor condition in the midfield and  that contributed to the reason why the front line couldn't receive ball the way it was supposed to be. If they where distributing the ball as expected,  Portugal would have gone far or even win the world cup because they where considered favourite even before the start of the game

I think you have a very different perspective on football. Portugal has never been a favorite in the World Cup. In fact, they've never even made it into the top 4 as favorites. If you can't look at things objectively, you won't be able to make money on betting.

Portugal's midfield is great, but they lack an effective striker up front. Ronaldo is now physically past his prime due to his age. His decision making isn't as sharp as it used to be because his body can't execute what he's thinking.
Ramos is still young and hasn't had his breakout season yet, but as long as Ronaldo is around, it'll be hard for him to prove himself. If they had a better striker, Portugal might've already thanked Ronaldo and retired him from the national team.

Back to today, they should beat Wales easily. There's a significant difference in caliber between the teams. I don't think Wales will be able to hold out for long. Since the matches against Norway and Denmark will be tougher, Portugal have to secure 3 points at home.

[Lannakosa]

Brobbey is leading the attack for the Netherlands, and after the first 15 minutes of play, he will surely make it difficult for Tah and Schlotterbeck. He has already blocked the goalkeeper and created a chance for Van Dijk, but unfortunately, it was a foul. I can see him getting on the scoresheet tonight.

So far, after 30 minutes of the first half, I can’t really figure out how to assess the German national team. They are barely attacking at all and seem to be focusing more on defending. Although the Netherlands aren’t attacking much either, it still feels like they are more determined to win this match. I expected a more attacking style of play from Klopp, but at this point Germany haven’t had a single shot on goal against the Netherlands.

[Baki202]

‎
‎I'm expecting Portugal to win Wales in this match, the match will be an easy match for Portugal.
‎portugal is actually a very good team and they have a very good squad so I expect them to make this match very easy.
‎one problem this Portugal team is having is that they are not working as a team, they have the best midfield in the world but in the world cup this midfielders did not perform very well, they actually disappointed a lot of people, I really don't know why they are not putting the effort they usually put in their team to there country.
‎

I think Portugal will start the Nations League with a win over Wales. Portugal are noticeably stronger in terms of their squad, with quality players in almost every area of the pitch. After their disappointing performance at the 2026 World Cup, the team will surely be extra motivated. However, Portugal did have problems with the players’ coordination during the World Cup, and I hope the new coach, Jorge Jesus, will be able to solve this issue.
Wales are going through a difficult period at the moment and rarely win. Therefore, I expect Portugal to take control of the game from the start and create enough chances to secure the victory.

I don’t really see anything that is going to give them an extra motivation it’s just the Nations League and most players doesn’t take this games seriously, I don’t take this games seriously as well it’s just like a friendly game, because those games are just something else, no doubt that Portugal have a very good and strong squad but they were very disappointing at the World Cup, I keep asking myself what Portugal is doing they keep inviting Ronaldo to the National Team, I think it’s time they stop inviting him so he can eventually retire, he isn’t helping the team anymore, he needs to give room for other new and young talented players to come into the team.

If you begin to underestimate the performance of Ronaldo in that Portuguese team I think you don't understand football or you are saying because you are messi's fan. Even a blind man can tell you that Ronaldo's performance was a perfect one if not for the weakness they experienced in their midfield. On  this last concluded World Cup we all know what happened was because there was poor condition in the midfield and  that contributed to the reason why the front line couldn't receive ball the way it was supposed to be. If they where distributing the ball as expected,  Portugal would have gone far or even win the world cup because they where considered favourite even before the start of the game

Most people don't like Ronaldo and does are Messi fans I feel like and Ronaldo is doing the best they can and even If Ronaldo don't do much again that guy will for ever remain a legend,  and I love how he said he wants to  retire very soon and even during the world cup the best was what Ronaldo gave just that sometimes in life you can not always get what you want, and only Ronaldo do not make up a team so as Ronaldo is been blamed his team mates should also take part of the blame because Ronaldo did don't make up a team just that when it comes to him people always have a high expectation when it comes Ronaldo not matter what we love him and we are going to continue to love him.

[Jewan420]

Brobbey is leading the attack for the Netherlands, and after the first 15 minutes of play, he will surely make it difficult for Tah and Schlotterbeck. He has already blocked the goalkeeper and created a chance for Van Dijk, but unfortunately, it was a foul. I can see him getting on the scoresheet tonight.

So far, after 30 minutes of the first half, I can’t really figure out how to assess the German national team. They are barely attacking at all and seem to be focusing more on defending. Although the Netherlands aren’t attacking much either, it still feels like they are more determined to win this match. I expected a more attacking style of play from Klopp, but at this point Germany haven’t had a single shot on goal against the Netherlands.

It seems Klopp heard your criticism and started attacking after 30 minutes, as a result Germany got their first goal in the 32nd minute of the match. Netherlands are a defensive team, it is not unusual to see a defensive match from them. So you will not see much attack in such a match.
Of the 7 matches going on, Norway vs Denmark seems to be the most attacking. In the 30 minutes you mentioned, three goals were scored in this match. Portugal vs Wales was also an attacking match, but the number of goals was very low compared to the attack. Portugal scored only 1 goal against 13 attacks, Wales did not create any attack.

[Silikiem]

Brobbey is leading the attack for the Netherlands, and after the first 15 minutes of play, he will surely make it difficult for Tah and Schlotterbeck. He has already blocked the goalkeeper and created a chance for Van Dijk, but unfortunately, it was a foul. I can see him getting on the scoresheet tonight.

So far, after 30 minutes of the first half, I can’t really figure out how to assess the German national team. They are barely attacking at all and seem to be focusing more on defending. Although the Netherlands aren’t attacking much either, it still feels like they are more determined to win this match. I expected a more attacking style of play from Klopp, but at this point Germany haven’t had a single shot on goal against the Netherlands.

And now, it is even the Germans who struck first in the space of 32 minutes, a wonderfully taken goal by Felix Nmecha and assisted by The new Barcelona signing Karin Adeyemi. This two players have been in an excellent form for their respective clubs Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona and now they’ve combined to give the German side the lead against The Netherlands who are playing at home. The Netherlands seem to have slowed down from their Tempo and they are the ones doing more of the defending now as the Germans have overtaking them in possession and shots on target so far in this first half.

[Merit.s]

So far, after 30 minutes of the first half, I can’t really figure out how to assess the German national team. They are barely attacking at all and seem to be focusing more on defending. Although the Netherlands aren’t attacking much either, it still feels like they are more determined to win this match. I expected a more attacking style of play from Klopp, but at this point Germany haven’t had a single shot on goal against the Netherlands.

The game is on three minutes additional time and Germany is on 1-0 lead. Nmecha superb goal on the 32 minutes separates both side. Netherlands are attacking aggressively to see how they can get an equalizer before the end if the first half but all their efforts are in vain.

The Germans made proper use of their chance to find the back of the net which has given them a better advantage over Netherland.

[Roseline492]

‎I'm expecting Portugal to win Wales in this match, the match will be an easy match for Portugal.
‎portugal is actually a very good team and they have a very good squad so I expect them to make this match very easy.
‎one problem this Portugal team is having is that they are not working as a team, they have the best midfield in the world but in the world cup this midfielders did not perform very well, they actually disappointed a lot of people, I really don't know why they are not putting the effort they usually put in their team to there country.
‎

Portugal midfield only gave them problem on the last concluded tournament but it wasn't bad on the other ones but however I haven't seen any problem is giving them yet against Wales because Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha has been keeping it strong on this match, right from this moment Portugal is leading with a goal from Joao Felix whom the season has been favouring with goals, after Portugal started leading the game I was thinking Wales would charge up but throughout the entire first half they weren't forceful and Portugal keeps coming at them so it was a complete labour for Wales on the first half as Portugal was playing them half field.

[Abu-Naim]

And now, it is even the Germans who struck first in the space of 32 minutes, a wonderfully taken goal by Felix Nmecha and assisted by The new Barcelona signing Karin Adeyemi. This two players have been in an excellent form for their respective clubs Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona and now they’ve combined to give the German side the lead against The Netherlands who are playing at home. The Netherlands seem to have slowed down from their Tempo and they are the ones doing more of the defending now as the Germans have overtaking them in possession and shots on target so far in this first half.

Yes, the young talented German players are actually playing really well, the pressure they are putting in Netherlands defense has resulted to many yellow cards in the game, and they used their chance to score a goal in the first half, and from the way the game is going, I am expecting a goal from Kareem Adeyemi of Barcelona because he is plying so well in this match, and the German team have more teamwork than the Netherlands side, if the match continue as the first half ends, we might see additional two goals form the German side because this will be an important win for them to prove to the world that they are also strong.

[Somto9Light]

So far, after 30 minutes of the first half, I can’t really figure out how to assess the German national team. They are barely attacking at all and seem to be focusing more on defending. Although the Netherlands aren’t attacking much either, it still feels like they are more determined to win this match. I expected a more attacking style of play from Klopp, but at this point Germany haven’t had a single shot on goal against the Netherlands.

The game is on three minutes additional time and Germany is on 1-0 lead. Nmecha superb goal on the 32 minutes separates both side. Netherlands are attacking aggressively to see how they can get an equalizer before the end if the first half but all their efforts are in vain.

The Germans made proper use of their chance to find the back of the net which has given them a better advantage over Netherland.

If not that Virgil Van Dijk goal was disallowed by VAR because of a foul that was committed by Netherlands player Brian Brobbey,  the score could have been 1:1. Looking at the pace of the match, i think that the Netherlands will get an equaliser when they return for second half. However, Germany should make judicious use of this 1 goal lead because if the Netherlands equalizes the score they might go ahead and get a comeback because Germany doesn't have a solid defense. Maybe Jürgen Klopp might be the coach to bring back the German strength that we used to see in the past.

[Queentoshi]

So far, after 30 minutes of the first half, I can’t really figure out how to assess the German national team. They are barely attacking at all and seem to be focusing more on defending. Although the Netherlands aren’t attacking much either, it still feels like they are more determined to win this match. I expected a more attacking style of play from Klopp, but at this point Germany haven’t had a single shot on goal against the Netherlands.

The game is on three minutes additional time and Germany is on 1-0 lead. Nmecha superb goal on the 32 minutes separates both side. Netherlands are attacking aggressively to see how they can get an equalizer before the end if the first half but all their efforts are in vain.

The Germans made proper use of their chance to find the back of the net which has given them a better advantage over Netherland.

It is an entertaining game I see with each player putting in enough effort to ensure that they get on the positive side of the new coach to secure a first team place from an impressive performance as they have the opportunity to play. Supporters of Arsenal who are watching this game will be hoping that it is not a serious injury that Havertz has sustained that has made him to be removed early from the game because Arsenal are lacking in attacking options.

Netherlands have not looked totally oppressed in the first half, they have had a goal cancelled and they are creating chances, they can change the game in the second half.

[Jaycoinz]

Brobbey is leading the attack for the Netherlands, and after the first 15 minutes of play, he will surely make it difficult for Tah and Schlotterbeck. He has already blocked the goalkeeper and created a chance for Van Dijk, but unfortunately, it was a foul. I can see him getting on the scoresheet tonight.

Well he isn't going to be a problem any more has he have subbed off due to injury minutes before the second half. Have you guys noticed this recent trend especially with the Netherland and Germany, Havertz went off, as well as Brobbey and before that, a match to international duty, Malen got injured, the third option for Netherland striker too was unavailable that they had to use Maardink now who was an impromptu choice, is Xavi unlucky or its a pattern ?

[HyperCodexV]

I am watching the Portugal vs Wales match right now and from the look of things, almost half of that stadium is patiently waiting for CR7 to score a goal. Ronaldo is just something else entirely, he has a cat life. I seriouly thought he was going to hands off the national team after the 2026 world cup tournamnet but the man is very obsessed with football. He will play until his legs can't cope anymore. One thing can never change though, the media will still find a way to hammer him regardless of the outcome of the match, whetther portugal win, draw or lose.