European powerhouses take center stage as World Cup qualification heats up
The race to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially in full swing across Europe, with heavyweight nations beginning to assert their dominance — while several surprise packages threaten to shake up the traditional order. As the qualification campaign enters its midway stage, the battle for automatic spots is tighter than ever, with major nations like Italy and Portugal facing unexpected pressure.
England march on — Bellingham and Palmer shine
England continued their flawless qualifying run under Gareth Southgate, defeating Greece 3–0 at Wembley. Jude Bellingham and Cole Palmer orchestrated a commanding display, with goals from Harry Kane, Phil Foden, and Palmer sealing another clean-sheet victory.
Southgate praised his team’s maturity, saying:
“We’re playing with balance aggression when needed and calmness when it counts. The younger players are stepping up, and that’s what makes this squad special.”
England now sit atop Group A with 15 points from 5 matches, five clear of nearest challengers Switzerland.
France bounce back after shock draw
Didier Deschamps’ France responded emphatically after their 1–1 draw with Bosnia, thrashing Finland 4–0 in Paris. Kylian Mbappé was the standout once again, scoring twice and providing an assist, while Aurélien Tchouaméni controlled the midfield with composure.
Deschamps highlighted France’s depth:
“We’ve got competition in every position that’s what will carry us to North America in 2026.”
France remain joint-top in their group alongside Netherlands, who narrowly beat Norway 2–1 thanks to a Memphis Depay brace.
Germany steadies under Nagelsmann
After a turbulent year, Germany appear revitalized under Julian Nagelsmann. A disciplined 2–0 away victory over Poland saw goals from Kai Havertz and Florian Wirtz, with the team finally displaying defensive structure and attacking intent.
Nagelsmann’s tactics — blending high pressing with flexible buildup have transformed the squad’s energy ahead of their co-hosting duties for the 2026 tournament.
“We’re building confidence and identity again,” said Nagelsmann. “This team can be among the best in the world by next summer.”
Italy stumble again as pressure grows on Spalletti
Italy’s campaign continues to stutter after a 1–1 draw with Serbia, with defensive lapses costing them once again. Despite an early Federico Chiesa strike, a late equalizer from Dusan Vlahović denied the Azzurri a crucial win. Manager Luciano Spalletti is under growing scrutiny as Italy risk another tense qualification race.
Surprise of the week: Scotland and Slovenia impress
Scotland remain the dark horses of this qualification cycle, following up a 3–1 win over Greece with a 2–0 victory against Romania, powered by goals from Scott McTominay and John McGinn. Meanwhile, Slovenia stunned Croatia 1–0, with teenage striker Benjamin Šeško netting the decisive goal.
What’s next?
The next round of UEFA qualifiers continues later this month, with several mouth-watering fixtures:
- France vs Netherlands – a potential group decider
- Italy vs Croatia – must-win for both sides
- England vs Switzerland – top-of-the-table clash at Wembley
The road to FIFA World Cup 2026 is long, but momentum is starting to build and Europe’s elite are fine-tuning their squads for the biggest stage in global football.
Leave a comment