France beat Italy & Isreal stun Belgium in thrilling Finale to UEFA Nations League 24-25 group stage
The concluding matchday of the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 group stage delivered a night of drama and surprises, with Europe’s top teams battling for supremacy. Fans witnessed thrilling goals, shocking upsets, and dominant performances as the group stage came to a close. France outclassed Italy at San Siro, Israel pulled off a stunning victory over Belgium, and England crushed Ireland at Wembley. Here’s a recap of Sunday’s exciting action.
Italy 1-3 France: Rabiot and Digne Propel France to Group Victory
France emerged victorious against Italy at the iconic San Siro, securing a 3-1 win to top their Nations League group on goal difference. Adrien Rabiot gave France an early lead with a clinical header from Lucas Digne’s precise corner. Digne later doubled the advantage with a free kick that ricocheted off the crossbar and Italy’s goalkeeper.
Italy managed to reduce the deficit through Andrea Cambiaso’s expertly volleyed effort, set up by Federico Dimarco’s lofted pass. However, France quickly regained control as Rabiot scored his second header, again assisted by Digne. Both teams now await their quarterfinal opponents, with the competition resuming in March.
Israel 1-0 Belgium: Late Drama Seals Historic Win for Israel
In one of the evening’s most shocking results, Israel secured their first group-stage victory by defeating Belgium 1-0. The first half was marked by close calls, with Israel hitting the post twice and Belgium coming closest through Dodi Lukebakio’s off-target strike.
The deadlock was broken in the 86th minute when Shua pounced on a loose ball in Belgium’s box, coolly slotting it past Koen Casteels to spark jubilant celebrations. Belgium, who finished their campaign without a win, will reflect on a disappointing group stage.
England 5-0 Ireland: Ruthless England Shine at Wembley
England marked their return to Nations League A with an emphatic 5-0 victory over Ireland at Wembley. The first half remained tense until Ireland’s Liam Scales received a red card, shifting the momentum decisively in England’s favor.
Harry Kane converted a penalty to open the scoring, followed by goals from Anthony Gordon, Conor Gallagher, Jarrod Bowen, and Taylor Harwood-Bellis. Jude Bellingham was instrumental, winning the penalty and setting up two late goals, signaling a strong start under manager Thomas Tuchel. While England prepares for March’s World Cup qualifiers, Ireland faces a rebuilding phase.
Other Results
Norway 5-0 Kazakhstan: Norway delivered a commanding attacking performance.
Finland 0-2 Greece: Greece claimed a crucial away win.
Austria 1-1 Slovenia: Both sides settled for a hard-fought draw.
North Macedonia 1-0 Faroe Islands: A narrow home victory for North Macedonia.
Latvia 1-2 Armenia: Armenia edged out Latvia in a tightly contested match.
As the group stage concludes, the Nations League sets the stage for an exciting knockout phase in March, with Europe’s best teams vying for glory.
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