The UEFA Nations League, launched in 2018, has quickly grown into a major fixture on the international football calendar. Designed to bring competitive edge to international breaks, the tournament has delivered high-quality matches, dramatic finales, and the emergence of new stars. With its unique format and emphasis on meaningful competition, the Nations League has added a new layer of excitement to European football, producing moments and players that will be remembered for years to come.
Legendary Teams: Early Dominance in the Nations League
In its brief history, the UEFA Nations League has already seen some of Europe’s most successful footballing nations make their mark. Portugal, led by the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo, became the tournament’s inaugural champions in 2019. Playing in front of their home fans, Portugal showcased a blend of experience and youthful exuberance. Players like Bernardo Silva and Rúben Dias complemented Ronaldo’s brilliance, and their 1-0 victory over the Netherlands in the final established Portugal as the first kings of the Nations League.
The 2021 edition belonged to France, who overcame Spain in a tightly contested final. France’s depth of talent was on full display, with Kylian Mbappé, Karim Benzema, and Paul Pogba orchestrating their success. Benzema’s curling strike and Mbappé’s composed finish in the final were moments of pure brilliance that highlighted why France remains one of the world’s top footballing nations.
In the 2024 edition, Spain finally claimed their first Nations League title after falling short in 2021. Under the guidance of Luis de la Fuente, Spain blended young talent with seasoned veterans. Players like Rodri, who dominated midfield battles, and Álvaro Morata, whose goals were decisive, led La Roja to glory. Their victory over Croatia in a tense penalty shootout in the final was a testament to their composure and teamwork.
Legendary Matches: Drama on the International Stage
The UEFA Nations League has already given fans plenty of thrilling encounters. One of the most memorable matches came in the 2021 semi-finals when France faced Belgium. The Belgians stormed to a 2-0 lead in the first half, with goals from Yannick Carrasco and Romelu Lukaku. However, France mounted a stunning comeback, with Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappé leading the charge. Theo Hernández’s last-minute winner sealed a 3-2 victory and sent France into the final.
The 2024 final between Spain and Croatia was another nail-biter. After a goalless 120 minutes, the match was decided in a penalty shootout. Spain held their nerve, with Unai Simón making crucial saves and Dani Carvajal scoring the decisive spot-kick to secure the trophy.
Another unforgettable moment came in the 2019 semi-finals when Portugal faced Switzerland. Cristiano Ronaldo delivered one of the tournament’s most iconic performances, scoring a hat-trick to single-handedly guide his team to the final. His third goal, a stunning free kick, was a reminder of his ability to produce magic when it matters most.
Top Players: Stars of the Nations League
The Nations League has served as a platform for some of Europe’s brightest stars to shine. Cristiano Ronaldo remains one of the tournament’s standout performers, with his hat-trick against Switzerland in 2019 and his leadership in Portugal’s title run solidifying his place in Nations League history.
Kylian Mbappé has also made his mark, particularly during France’s 2021 campaign. His match-winning goal in the final against Spain showcased his composure under pressure, while his overall influence throughout the tournament reaffirmed his status as one of the world’s best.
Rodri, Spain’s midfield maestro, was instrumental in their 2024 triumph. His ability to control the tempo of matches, break up opposition attacks, and provide incisive passes made him the heartbeat of La Roja’s success. Alongside him, Álvaro Morata delivered in crucial moments, including key goals in the knockout stages.
For Croatia, Luka Modrić has been a consistent force, leading his team to consecutive final appearances in 2021 and 2024. His vision, passing, and leadership have been vital in Croatia’s impressive Nations League campaigns.
Top Performances: Nights of Brilliance
Some individual performances in the Nations League have already become part of football folklore. Cristiano Ronaldo’s semi-final hat-trick against Switzerland in 2019 is undoubtedly one of the best. From his curling free kick to his lethal finishing, Ronaldo carried Portugal to the final with a performance that epitomized his greatness.
In 2021, Karim Benzema’s goal against Spain in the final was another standout moment. Picking up the ball on the edge of the box, Benzema curled a stunning strike into the top corner, igniting France’s comeback and setting the stage for Mbappé’s winner.
Rodri’s dominance in Spain’s 2024 campaign was also a highlight. In the final against Croatia, he controlled the midfield with ease, dictating play and providing the foundation for Spain’s eventual victory in the shootout.
The Best Formation Ever: A Dream 4-3-3
With so many talented players shining in the Nations League’s short history, selecting an all-time XI in a 4-3-3 formation is no easy task. Here’s a lineup that captures the tournament’s best performers so far:
Goalkeeper: Unai Simón – Spain’s hero in the 2024 final, his penalty shootout saves and consistent performances earn him the spot.
Right-Back: Dani Carvajal – A reliable defender and a cool finisher under pressure, Carvajal’s decisive penalty in the 2024 final was a defining moment.
Centre-Backs: Rúben Dias and Aymeric Laporte – Dias was a rock for Portugal in their 2019 triumph, while Laporte’s composure and defensive prowess were vital for Spain in 2024.
Left-Back: Theo Hernández – His match-winning goal against Belgium in the 2021 semi-final and marauding runs down the left flank make him a standout.
Midfielders: Luka Modrić, Rodri, and Paul Pogba – Modrić’s creativity and leadership, Rodri’s dominance, and Pogba’s ability to control games form a midfield trio that balances flair and steel.
Right Wing: Kylian Mbappé – France’s talisman in 2021, Mbappé’s pace, skill, and clutch performances make him an easy choice.
Left Wing: Cristiano Ronaldo – The undisputed star of the inaugural tournament, Ronaldo’s goals and leadership define the Nations League’s early years.
Striker: Álvaro Morata – Spain’s go-to forward in 2024, Morata’s knack for scoring in crucial moments earns him the nod as the leading striker.
A Tournament with a Bright Future
The UEFA Nations League has already proven itself as a competition that combines the prestige of international football with the excitement of knockout drama. From Cristiano Ronaldo’s brilliance to Spain’s 2024 redemption, the tournament has delivered unforgettable moments and highlighted Europe’s immense talent pool.
As the Nations League continues to grow, its ability to elevate players, teams, and fanbases will only strengthen. For fans who want to celebrate and relive these incredible moments, Walkouts offers a collection of memorabilia that captures the essence of this vibrant and exciting competition.
