May 4 – The draw for the group stage of the inaugural UEFA Women’s Nations League 2023/24 saw 51 of UEFA’s 55 nations in the pot.
It was a draw that saw a number of near neighbours and old foes drawn together. In League A England found themselves paired with the ‘old enemy’ Scotland, while also in the group are the next door neighbours and joint bidders for Euro 2025 Netherlands and Belgium.
England and Scotland last played each other at the World Cup in 2019 with England winning 2-1.
While the England group looks to be tough, Group 4 promises to be fiercest with powerhouse women’s teams Sweden and Spain drawn together with Italy and Euro 2025 hosts Switzerland.
France and Germany in comparison look to have easier group play.
The top teams in each group will qualify for the Nations League finals. Group matches will be played in September, October, and November/December, with the finals to be played February 21-28.
The Nations League will qualify two teams for the 2024 Olympic games in Paris. If France make the final then the winner of the third-placed play-off will qualify.
The results will also determine the rankings and seeds for the Euro 2025 qualifiers.
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