Portugal and Spain secure UEFA Nations League quarter-final spots after wins

Portugal and Spain have booked their places in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals. Spain secured qualification with a 2-1 victory over Croatia on Tuesday night, with Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino scoring both goals. This win takes Spain to 12 points from four matches, joining Portugal, who had already qualified after winning all their games last week.

For Nigerian football fans following European competitions, the performance of Merino—who plays for Arsenal—highlights the growing influence of Nigerian-linked players in top leagues. Spain’s place in the last eight adds another high-profile tie to watch as the tournament progresses toward the 2027 finals. The Nations League, now in its third edition, offers European sides a competitive route to silverware and a potential path to the UEFA Euro 2028 playoffs, making each match meaningful beyond bragging rights.

The remaining quarter‑final spots will be decided in two rounds of matches between 12 and 17 November 2027. The quarter‑final draw will take place from 25 to 30 March 2027, with semi‑finals scheduled for 9 to 13 June 2027. The two worst third‑placed teams and the two best fourth‑placed teams will contest a play‑off to avoid relegation, while the two worst fourth‑placed sides drop automatically. Will you follow the November fixtures to see which other teams join Portugal and Spain, or mark your calendar for the March draw to see the quarter‑final pairings?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/10/07/uefa-nations-league-two-teams-qualify-for-quarter-finals/