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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Jamie Gardner

What to know about the new European qualifiers and Nations League changes

Nations League Euro League A UEFA Champions League
  • UEFA is set to introduce a Champions League-style qualification format for European national teams ahead of the 2030 World Cup.
  • The new system will place the 36 highest-ranked countries into three groups of 12 in League A, utilising a 'Swiss system' where teams play six opponents.
  • League A group winners will secure direct qualification for the Euro or World Cup finals, with other spots decided via play-offs involving teams from both League A and League B.
  • The format aims to improve competitive balance, reduce 'dead matches', and create a more dynamic competition without increasing the number of international fixtures.
  • Additionally, UEFA plans to revise the Nations League from the 2028-29 edition, moving to three leagues of 18 teams each, divided into three groups of six.

IN FULL

Uefa confirms major changes to European qualifiers and Nations League

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