Portugal Drawn into Tough League of Nations Group: What It Means for the Reigning Champions
Portugal will face a challenging defense of their League of Nations title, having been drawn into Group 4 of League A alongside Denmark, Norway, and Wales. The draw, held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, sets the stage for a compelling series of matches starting in September.
A Familiar Foe and Rising Stars
The Portuguese squad will renew acquaintances with Denmark, having recently faced them in the quarter-finals of the previous League of Nations edition. Norway, boasting the prolific Erling Haaland and midfielder Sivert Aursnes, presents a significant threat. Wales, known for their competitive spirit, completes the group.
League of Nations Format and Timeline
The new phase of group matches will kick off between September 24th and 26th, with a second round of fixtures following closely between September 27th and 29th. Further matchdays are scheduled throughout September, October, and November. The quarter-finals are slated for March 25th-30th, 2027, culminating in the final-four tournament from June 9th-13th, 2027. The host nation for the final stages remains to be determined.
Portugal’s League of Nations Pedigree
Portugal enters the competition as the most successful nation in League of Nations history, having secured victories in both 2019 and 2025. France and Spain have also previously lifted the trophy, highlighting the high level of competition within League A.
A Look at the Other League A Groups
The League A groups are shaping up to be fiercely contested:
- Group 1: France, Italy, Belgium, and Turkey
- Group 2: Germany, Netherlands, Serbia, and Greece
- Group 3: Spain, England, Croatia, and Czechia
Beyond League A: A Glance at the Other Divisions
The League of Nations extends beyond the elite League A, with competitive action also taking place in Leagues B, C, and D. Here’s a quick overview:
League B
- Group 1: Scotland, Switzerland, Slovenia, and North Macedonia
- Group 2: Hungary, Ukraine, Georgia, and Northern Ireland
- Group 3: Israel, Austria, Republic of Ireland, and Kosovo
- Group 4: Poland, Bosnia, Romania, and Sweden
League C
- Group 1: Albania, Finland, Belarus, and San Marino
- Group 2: Montenegro, Armenia, Cyprus, and Latvia/Gibraltar
- Group 3: Kazakhstan, Slovakia, Faroe Islands, and Moldova
- Group 4: Iceland, Bulgaria, Estonia, and Luxembourg/Malta
League D
- Group 1: Gibraltar/Latvia, Malta/Luxembourg and Andorra.
- Group 2: Lithuania, Azerbaijan and Liechtenstein.
Key Players to Watch
Several players will be pivotal for their respective nations. For Portugal, all eyes will be on their key attacking talents. Norway’s Erling Haaland will undoubtedly be a major threat, although Denmark’s Hjulmand, Bah and Froholdt will look to solidify their midfield and defense. Wales will rely on their team spirit and tactical discipline.
FAQ
Q: When does the League of Nations 2026/27 begin?
A: The first matches are scheduled between September 24th and 26th, 2026.
Q: Which teams are in League A?
A: League A features the top national teams in Europe, including Portugal, France, Spain, Germany, Italy, and others.
Q: Where will the League of Nations final-four be held?
A: The host nation for the final-four tournament is yet to be announced.
Q: How many times has Portugal won the League of Nations?
A: Portugal has won the League of Nations twice, in 2019 and 2025.
Did you know? Portugal is the most successful team in the history of the League of Nations, with two titles to their name.
Stay tuned for further updates and analysis as the League of Nations 2026/27 unfolds. Don’t miss out on the action as Europe’s top teams battle for supremacy!
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