Why does performing well in the Nations League matter for national teams?

The 2026-27 UEFA Nations League action continues, as European teams aim to rise up the rankings.

England produced one of their most dominant performances on Saturday to outclass Croatia 7-0.

Spain maintained their perfect start in the Nations League by beating Czechia 3-1.

Meanwhile, France, Belgium, Portugal and Norway are set to be in action on Sunday.

Portugal have won the Nations League twice, with France and Spain also bagging a title each.

While the tournament does not have the historical prestige of the World Cup or the European Championships, it still holds value for national sides.

Performing well in the competition matter

The Nations League is not a meaningless friendly, which is instantly forgotten.

The tournament offers teams a chance to win international silverware that comes with a significant financial reward as well.

There are plenty who feel the competition is meaningless, but it was certainly not for those Portugal supporters who saw their team win the penalty shootout against Spain last year at the Munich Football Arena.

While teams cannot directly qualify for the World Cup or Euros through the Nations League alone, it does offer a back door into major tournaments.

The best performing teams in the Nations League who have not qualified for the Euro 2028 from the qualification campaign will enter into play-offs to earn the final qualifying spots for the tournament.

Sweden finished last in their qualifying group for the 2026 World Cup but still made it to the finals after entering the playoffs through the Nations League.