England face Spain and Croatia in Nations League | OneFootball

England have been dealt a daunting assignment in this year’s Nations League after the draw was made in Brussels ahead of the competition’s September start.

The Three Lions have been placed alongside Spain, Croatia and Czechia in what looks one of the competition’s toughest groups.

Spain stand out as the main obstacle. The European champions broke English hearts in the Euro 2024 final, striking late after Cole Palmer had brought England level. Croatia will also raise eyebrows, given their extra-time victory over England in the 2018 World Cup semi-final. Czechia, one of the stronger sides from pot four, complete a challenging line-up.

The campaign begins on 24 September, with the group stage concluding during the November international break. A top-two finish would see England advance to the play-offs in March 2027, with the finals set for June.

England will be eager to respond after their dismal 2022 Nations League showing, when they were relegated from the top tier without winning a match.

Wales, meanwhile, have also been handed a difficult task. Craig Bellamy’s side will face holders Portugal, Norway and Denmark in Group A4.

Scotland have been drawn in League B Group 1 alongside Switzerland, Slovenia and North Macedonia.

The Republic of Ireland will meet Austria, Israel and Kosovo in League B Group 2, while Northern Ireland take on Hungary, Ukraine and Georgia in League B Group 3.

Nations League A full draw HERE.

Nations League B full draw HERE.