The Big Four of the 2025 Nations League

The UEFA Nations League group stage has wrapped up, and four teams clearly separated themselves from the rest. Heading into the semi-finals are Portugal, France, Germany, and Spain. Each team has impressed with strong performances and now stands just two wins away from the trophy. Here’s a look at the top four powerhouses going into the final stage of the tournament.

Portugal

Throughout the group stage, Portugal remained unbeaten with four wins and two draws, boasting a plus-eight goal differential and dominating most of their opponents. Portugal booked their place in the semi-finals after a dramatic 5–2 win over Denmark in extra time, sealing a 5–3 aggregate victory. Francisco Trincão came off the bench to score twice, while Cristiano Ronaldo added a goal of his own. With their depth, form, and mix of youth and experience, Portugal enters the semi-finals as a serious threat to go all the way. With Germany up next, Portugal will need another solid showing to keep their title hopes alive.

France

France finished the group stage with four wins, one draw, and one loss, earning a plus-six goal differential and showing consistent quality throughout. They secured their spot in the semi-finals after a tense two-legged battle with Croatia, ultimately winning in a penalty shootout following a 2–2 aggregate draw. As always, Kylian Mbappé has been a standout, leading the French attack with speed and clinical precision. If France wants to keep their title hopes alive, they will need to rise to the occasion against a red-hot Spain side in the semi-finals. A strong performance would also help prove that Ligue 1 produces world-class talent and is a top league. 

Germany

Germany enters the semi-finals with strong momentum after a thrilling 5–4 aggregate win over Italy in the quarterfinals. The squad has looked well-balanced under the leadership of Joshua Kimmich. Jamal Musiala has been a standout, showcasing his creativity and dribbling ability, while Ilkay Gündogan continues to anchor the midfield with control and experience. Germany went unbeaten in the group stage with four wins and two draws, finishing with an impressive +14 goal differential. With the semi-finals taking place on home soil, Germany will look to use their crowd energy and disciplined style to edge past a dangerous Portugal side.

Spain

Spain claimed a 5-4 penalty shootout win over the Netherlands at home on Sunday to reach the Nations League semi-finals, after the second leg of their thrilling contest ended 3-3 to leave the tie level 5- 5 on aggregate. Spain heads into the semi-finals looking like one of the most complete teams in the tournament. This Spanish side blends youthful energy with tactical discipline, led by the likes of Pedri and Dani Olmo, and backed by the shot-stopping heroics of Unai Simón. They also have a rising star in Lamine Yamal, who continues to show why he will be one of football’s future greats. Spain dominated the group stage with five wins and one draw, going unbeaten and finishing with a plus-nine goal differential. With a tough test against France up next, they’ll need to stay sharp and continue playing their signature possession-based football to book a spot in the final.

These are undoubtedly the four best national teams in football right now. Each has shown consistency, depth, and world-class talent throughout the Nations League. With stars across every position and players eager to earn silverware, every team will leave it all on the pitch. The stage is set, which nation will come out on top?