Greece is on the verge of making history in the UEFA Nations League (UNL), with the potential to ascend to League A for the first time. This remarkable feat would mark their inaugural League B campaign, and securing a spot at the top level on their first attempt would be an outstanding accomplishment. Greece will secure their place in the next cycle if they simply avoid a loss against England.
Their confidence is likely bolstered by a previous 2-1 victory over England at Wembley, although they must overcome the challenge of having never defeated England on Greek soil (L4). Notably, Greece is the only team in League B to maintain a perfect record, boasting eight victories from 11 UNL home matches (D2, L1), suggesting strong prospects for promotion.
England, however, will argue that none of those games were against opponents of their calibre, and the Three Lions are aware that they must break this streak to secure their own promotion. It is widely viewed as unfortunate that England is in League B to begin with, and for caretaker manager Lee Carsley, failing to elevate them back to the top tier would reflect poorly on his leadership abilities.
These two matches will mark the end of Carsley’s tenure as he steps aside for Thomas Tuchel. With victories in both of their UNL away fixtures by two-goal margins this cycle, the German manager remains hopeful of leading his new team back to League A. Securing second place would mean a promotion play-off, so they are eager to clinch another two-goal win to gain an advantage in the head-to-head comparison, especially as the battle for the top spot seems likely to end in a tie.
Players to keep an eye on: A goal from Fotis Ioannidis could secure Greece’s promotion, as they have never lost with him scoring (W3, D1), including two matches in this cycle. Cole Palmer, given the opportunity to shine by Carsley, has scored the third goal in his last four club-level scoring appearances.
Interesting stat: Greece have managed to keep a clean sheet in nine out of their 11 UNL home matches.
