UEFA Nations League 2026-27 kicks off fifth edition of the competition

The UEFA Nations League returns for its fifth edition, with the league phase beginning on Thursday as national teams across Europe compete in their respective groups for honours and promotion.

The competition divides nations into leagues based on their ranking, with the strongest sides placed in League A and the weakest in the lower tiers. Teams battle through the group stage before the top sides advance to knockout rounds, while those finishing bottom face relegation to a lower league.

The tournament continues to serve as a meaningful alternative to traditional friendlies, offering competitive international football between major tournaments and providing qualification implications for future competitions.