The UEFA Nations League continued on Friday, September 25, 2026, with several big games in leagues A, B, and C.
One of the biggest stories came from Türkiye, where France defeated Türkiye 1-0 in Zinedine Zidane's first competitive match as France coach.
Kylian Mbappé scored the only goal in the 54th minute after being set up by Michael Olise. But the victory was disappointing for France as Mbappé suffered an injury when he scored and was substituted.
Belgium Make Strong Start Against Italy.
Belgium also began their campaign with three points, defeating Italy 2-0 in Rome.
Mika Godts opened the scoring in the 21st minute on a pass by Kevin De Bruyne. Dodi Lukébakio then sealed the victory with a solo effort in the second half.
The result was big for new Belgium coach Mark van Bommel, who started his Nations League tenure with a win. For Italy, it was a difficult start to Roberto Mancini's second spell in charge.
Northern Ireland Produce Late Drama
One of the most dramatic results came in League B, where Northern Ireland defeated Georgia 1-0.
The match appeared to be heading towards a draw until Shea Charles scored in the 99th minute.
Northern Ireland goalkeeper Pierce Charles had earlier saved a penalty from Georgia star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. The result gave Northern Ireland a memorable start and their first-ever League B victory in the Nations League.
Ukraine and Sweden pick up some important wins
Ukraine defeated Hungary 1-0, with Danylo Sikan scoring the key goal. The striker came back to international football after more than three years and had a goal.
In another League B match, Sweden defeated Romania 2-1. Alexander Isak opened the scoring before Viktor Gyökeres restored Sweden's advantage after Romania had equalised.
Other Friday Results
Important Movements From Friday
The major movement from Friday's matches was in League A, where France and Belgium collected three points immediately.
France also began a new coaching era under Zidane, while Belgium started life under Van Bommel with a notable away win in Italy. Northern Ireland’s late win and Ukraine’s away win provided both teams with an early boost to League B.
The 2026/27 Nations League league phase began on September 24 and will run until November 17. Each League A, B, and C team plays six matches in the league.
Key results:
- Türkiye 0-1 France
- Italy 0-2 Belgium
- Georgia 0-1 Northern Ireland
- Hungary 0-1 Ukraine
- Sweden 2-1 Romania
- Poland 0-0 Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Armenia 2-0 Latvia
- Montenegro 2-1 Cyprus
