With Germany and Spain already qualified for the Nations League quarterfinals, the rest of the classic European powers seek their qualification in this window, each under very different circumstances. France does it without their leader and captain, Kylian Mbappé, amidst a dangerous crisis of reputation in the country. Portugal, on the other hand, is led by the tireless Cristiano, who has always managed to balance personal ambition with commitment to his national team and country. Like Messi. To succeed them in the next era, Mbappé knows he needs France.
Against Israel today, the French national team faces a simple sporting challenge, although the focus will be on the extensive security measures in Paris. The punishment of Didier Deschamps towards Mbappé is a showdown, but one in which he has the support of a large part of the press and public opinion. There is no debate with Cristiano, not yet, because Roberto Martínez has not allowed it. Playing in Saudi Arabia is no longer a problem. Laporte, with Spain, is an example. Portugal only needs a point against Poland, whom they will face tomorrow, and who will be without Lewandowski. The leader of the Polish national team will be absent due to physical problems. Lewandowski's national team does not help him to elevate his career as Cristiano or Mbappé's do.
In the same situation is Italy, undefeated, thanks especially to the victory they achieved away against France. Their first attempt is today in Belgium, where discussions have already begun about the return of Courtois amidst the crisis of their national team. If they fail in Belgium, they will have to do it against France at home in the second match of the window, all clearly framed in the toughest group of this Nations League.
Netherlands and Hungary, in Germany's group, and Denmark and Serbia, in Spain's group, will compete for two spots in the top tier of this competition where England is not present. The English team is playing for credibility, especially after their defeat against Greece at Wembley, following a wave of injuries that raised suspicions about the players' commitment, just before the coaching change with the arrival of Thomas Tuchel in January. Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Rice and Saka (Arsenal), Foden and Grealish (City), Palmer and Colwill (Chelsea), and Ramsdale (Southampton) were unavailable, according to the FA.
Real Madrid's Bellingham will once again be the leader, as was the case in the Eurocup. These will be the last two matches for interim coach Lee Carsley, in which to return to the top tier lost in 2022, they must win in Athens today with at least a two-goal advantage and defeat Ireland on Sunday.