Spain hasn’t dropped a game since March 2024, an absolutely wild 38 matches without a loss, and they’re rolling straight into an international break showdown with an injury-hit England squad. That’s a statement, man! The 2026/27 UEFA Nations League is kicking off this Thursday with some absolute bangers, and you know these early games set the tone for the entire season.
New Bosses, Major Firepower
This international break is all about fresh starts and high stakes, especially with so many new faces on the sidelines. Thursday brings us the Netherlands, now under new head coach Xavi Hernandez, taking on Jurgen Klopp’s “new-look” Germany squad. Germany’s got the historical bragging rights, winning 18 of their previous 48 matchups against the Dutch, losing only 12. Remember their last Nations League clash in 2024/25? Germany snagged a tight 1-0 win, with Jamie Leweling getting the decisive goal. Xavi’s got his work cut out for him trying to flip that script right out of the gate.
Then on Friday, Roberto Mancini begins his second reign as Italy boss when they battle Belgium at Stadio Olimpico. The Azzurri are desperate to put their World Cup disappointment behind them, while Belgium, under new coach Mark van Bommel, are looking to build on their improved World Cup showing. Italy won 1-0 in their last meeting in this competition, so expect fireworks. Later that day, Turkey, who had a rough World Cup getting bounced in the group stage, faces France. This is huge: it’s Zinedine Zidane’s first match in charge of the Blues. France finished fourth after losing a 10-goal thriller to England at the World Cup, so Zidane’s got to rally the troops. This Friday meeting is also their first ever in this competition.
Streaks, Struggles, and Showdowns
Saturday gives us that massive England vs. Spain clash. England’s dealing with injuries, making their task against Spain’s unbeaten run even tougher. The Three Lions haven’t faced Spain since that 2024 European Championship final, but they did beat them 3-2 in their last Nations League meeting. Can they do it again against a team that hasn’t lost in two years? That’s insane!
And just when you think it can’t get more intense, Monday brings a rematch from those earlier games: Belgium vs. France. This is Van Bommel’s home debut as Belgium’s head coach at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels. But get this: the Red Devils have lost their last five matches against France, including the last three in the Nations League. To add salt to the wound, Belgium hasn’t beaten France at home since a World Cup qualifier way back in 1981. Talk about a monkey on their back!
Seriously, this international break is loaded. These first four matchdays are going to be absolutely crucial for these teams. You do not want to miss a second of this action.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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