The Nations League group stages drew to a close on Tuesday night, as did the final international break of 2024.

Here are our most interesting takeaways from the action.

Spain remain the team to beat

Wins over Denmark and Switzerland saw La Roja make history, topping even the dream team of 2008-12.

With the best record of any side in the quarter-finals, who’d bet against Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams and co. lifting another trophy in 2025?

Bellamy’s Dragons fly to new heights

A 4-1 victory over Iceland in Cardiff coupled with Türkiye’s loss in Montenegro sealed automatic qualification to League A, and continued the former striker’s brilliant start to life in charge of his country.

No Mbappé, no problem for Les Bleus

By their high standards, France have struggled of late, bowing out in weak fashion at EURO 2024, losing 3-1 at home to Italy in the opening game of the Nations League in September, and then drawing 0-0 with Israel last Thursday.

They still managed to top their group though, with Adrien Rabiot leading them to a 3-1 win of their own over Luciano Spalletti’s side.

Europe’s deadliest striker does it again

He’s making Erling Haaland’s numbers look average right now. It feels like only a matter of time before he joins his fellow Scandinavian in the Premier League.

The only question is which club will he join?

A San Marino golden generation

The Nations League might not be to everyone’s liking, but it does give the smallest of countries the chance at some rare moments of glory.

📸 ADRIAN DENNIS – AFP or licensors