Essential Information about the 2022-23 Nations League Finals

Introduction:
The upcoming Nations League finals, scheduled for this month, promise an exciting four days of international football. This biennial tournament features European nations competing to determine the ultimate winner. Hosted by the Netherlands, the competition will include four top-10 teams battling it out in two semi-finals and a final from 14th to 18th June. Let’s delve into the details of this highly anticipated event.

Contending Teams:
All four teams participating in the finals currently rank within the top 10 in FIFA’s world rankings. The Netherlands leads the pack in sixth place, followed by Croatia in seventh, Italy in eighth, and Spain in tenth. While Croatia enters the finals without prior Nations League final experience, the Netherlands was the runner-up in the inaugural tournament won by Portugal in 2019. Spain reached the final in 2021 but was defeated by France.

Teams’ Preparations:
Liverpool and Netherlands defender, Virgil van Dijk, acknowledged the challenge of finding energy at the end of the season but expressed determination to win the Nations League. Croatia, although debuting in the finals, performed well in this season’s Nations League, finishing at the top of Group A1, including a victory in France. The Netherlands enjoyed an unbeaten qualification campaign for the finals, showcasing a 20-game undefeated streak under coach Louis van Gaal. Spain had a disappointing World Cup, exiting in the last 16, leading to a change in coaching staff.

Host Cities:
The Nations League finals will be held in two Dutch cities: Rotterdam and Enschede. The final match will take place at the home stadium of Eredivisie champions Feyenoord in Rotterdam, also known as De Kuip. The other matches will be held at FC Twente’s De Grolsch Veste stadium in Enschede.

Tournament Schedule:
The semi-finals are set to commence on 14th June, with the Netherlands facing Croatia at De Kuip. On 15th June, Spain will take on Italy at De Grolsch Veste. The third-place play-off is scheduled for 18th June at De Grolsch Veste, followed by the final later that day at De Kuip.

Implications for Euro 2024 Qualification:
Three of the 24 spots in the 2024 European Championships will be determined by play-off spots via the 2022-23 Nations League. The winners of each group in League A, B, and C will qualify for Euro 2024, provided they have not already secured qualification. If necessary, the next best-ranked team in their respective leagues will replace the qualified teams. This process continues down to League D if required.

Future Changes to the Nations League:
Uefa plans to revise the Nations League format for the 2024-25 edition. The changes will introduce quarter-finals and promotion play-offs, making the competition even more captivating. Additionally, Uefa announced the initiation of a Women’s Nations League starting in autumn 2023 as a prelude to the 2025 Women’s European Championship.

Conclusion:
With the Nations League finals just around the corner, football fans can anticipate thrilling matches between the top European nations. As the Netherlands hosts this year’s edition, teams like Croatia, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands will vie for the title. The tournament’s outcome will also have significant implications for Euro 2024 qualification. Furthermore, Uefa’s plans to enhance the Nations League format and introduce a Women’s Nations League showcase the ongoing evolution and expansion of international football competitions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Nations League finals

More about Nations League finals

• UEFA Nations League Official Website
• FIFA World Rankings
• Euro 2024 Official Website
• UEFA Women’s European Championship