NYON, Switzerland — In a reiteration of the situation seen in the 2023 Women’s World Cup final, Spain and England have now been placed in the same group for the 2025 Nations League, as announced on Thursday.
The reigning world champions, Spain, alongside the European champions England, will also compete against Belgium and Portugal within this group, with matches scheduled to occur between February 19 and June 3.
In a significant match from the World Cup, Spain secured a narrow 1-0 victory over England in Sydney. However, the celebration was somewhat overshadowed by the controversial behavior exhibited by Luis Rubiales, who was the president of the Spanish soccer federation at that time. Rubiales is set to have his appeal heard by the Court of Arbitration for Sport on Friday regarding a three-year ban imposed by FIFA.
Among the other noteworthy groupings, the top-tier National League consists of Germany, the runners-up from Euro 2022, who have been paired with the Netherlands, Austria, and Scotland.
France has been placed with Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland, the host nation for Euro 2025 which will take place next July.
Furthermore, Italy will compete against Denmark, Sweden, and Wales in a different group.
The champions of these premier-tier groups will progress to the semifinals, which will take place in October over two matches. The final, which will also be a two-leg event, is scheduled for November 26 and December 2.
Currently, Spain holds the title of Nations League champion, having triumphed in the inaugural final against France in February.
The results and standings from the 53 teams competing across three tiers in the Nations League will play a crucial role in determining rankings that will influence the qualifying draw for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.