The UEFA Nations League delivered thrilling action on Sunday, November 17, 2024, as France clinched a 3-1 victory over Italy in Milan to secure the top spot in Group A2. Adrien Rabiot and Lucas Digne led Les Bleus to glory in a decisive showdown. Meanwhile, Israel upset Belgium with a late winner, and Erling Haaland continued his spectacular form with a hat-trick for Norway. Here’s a detailed roundup of the key matches.
France Triumph Over Italy to Snatch Top Spot
France delivered a masterclass in Milan, defeating Italy 3-1 to avenge their earlier loss in Paris and secure first place in Group A2. Adrien Rabiot and Lucas Digne, both celebrating their 50th international caps, were instrumental in the victory. Rabiot netted a brace, both times assisted by Digne, whose set-piece prowess also forced an own goal from Italy’s Guglielmo Vicario.
Andrea Cambiaso scored for Italy, but the Azzurri could not match France’s intensity and precision. With this victory, France topped Group A2 with 13 points, edging Italy on goal difference.
“We had a young squad, I wanted to see a lot of players, and winning here against an Italian team who were full of confidence is a great performance,” said Didier Deschamps, France’s head coach. Goalkeeper Mike Maignan added, “We wanted revenge. It was about pride after losing at home.”
Israel Stun Belgium but Face Relegation
In Budapest, Israel recorded a dramatic 1-0 victory over Belgium, courtesy of an 86th-minute goal by debutant Yarden Shua. The substitute capitalized on a defensive error by Matte Smets to secure Israel’s first win in Group A2. Despite the triumph, Israel could not avoid relegation from the Nations League’s top tier, finishing level on points with Belgium but falling short on goal difference.
The result marked a bittersweet moment for Israel, who showed resilience and determination but ultimately faced demotion to League B.
Erling Haaland’s Hat-Trick Powers Norway
In Group B3, Erling Haaland once again showcased his extraordinary scoring ability, netting a hat-trick in Norway’s emphatic 5-0 victory over Kazakhstan. The Manchester City striker was joined on the scoresheet by Alexander Sørloth and Antonio Nusa, as Norway dominated from start to finish.
Erling Haaland is now the top scorer in the Nations League, with 6️⃣ goals.
It’s his 21st goal of the season for club and country. pic.twitter.com/l6ZevPDjKj
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) November 17, 2024
Norway’s commanding performance secured their place at the top of Group B3, setting them on course for promotion to League A. Haaland’s form has been a driving force for Norway throughout the Nations League, solidifying his reputation as one of the world’s premier forwards.
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Austria Held by Slovenia in Vienna
In a tightly contested match, Austria and Slovenia played to a 1-1 draw in Vienna. Romano Schmid gave Austria an early lead with a first-half strike, but Adam Gnezda Cerin equalized for Slovenia with nine minutes remaining. Despite the draw, Austria retained second place in Group B3, keeping their promotion hopes alive.
France’s Redemption and Group A2 Standings
France’s victory in Milan marked a turning point after their 3-1 loss to Italy in Paris earlier in the group stage. Their ability to adapt and deliver under pressure highlights the depth and talent within Didier Deschamps’ squad. The result also secured France’s progression to the Nations League finals, where they will compete against Europe’s elite.
Group A2 Final Standings:
- France – 13 points (+6 GD)
- Italy – 13 points (+4 GD)
- Belgium – 4 points (-4 GD)
- Israel – 4 points (-6 GD)
Key Performances of the Night
Adrien Rabiot and Lucas Digne (France)
Celebrating their 50th caps, Rabiot and Digne were the standout performers for France. Rabiot’s composure in front of goal and Digne’s creativity from set-pieces proved pivotal in France’s victory.
Yarden Shua (Israel)
Shua’s late winner against Belgium was a moment of brilliance, earning Israel a historic win. Despite the team’s relegation, his debut goal offered a silver lining for Israeli fans.
Erling Haaland (Norway)
Haaland’s hat-trick was a masterclass in finishing, underscoring his status as a generational talent. His contributions have been central to Norway’s successful Nations League campaign
Looking Ahead: Nations League Finals
With the group stage now complete, the focus shifts to the Nations League finals. France will join the winners of other top-tier groups in a quest to claim the title. The competition promises high-stakes matchups, offering teams an opportunity to test themselves ahead of upcoming European and World Cup qualifiers.
A Night of Nations League Drama
Sunday’s Nations League action delivered memorable moments across Europe. From France’s redemption in Milan to Haaland’s heroics for Norway, the evening showcased the excitement and unpredictability of international football. While Israel’s relegation brought disappointment, their victory over Belgium highlighted the fighting spirit that defines the competition.
As the Nations League progresses to its next stage, fans can look forward to more drama and brilliance on the international stage.
