Two advantages up for grabs if Italy top Nations League group

MILAN - NOVEMBER 12: Davide Frattesi of Italy celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Italy and France at San Siro Stadium on November 12, 2026 in Milan. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)

Italy have one decisive Nations League group stage fixture left to go away against Belgium on Sunday evening, and the Azzurri will claim two significant advantages if they are to end the night as group winners. 

What Italy would gain from winning Nations League group

Following Thursday night’s 3-1 victory at home against France, Italy’s first on home soil against Les Bleus since 1962, the Azzurri are currently at the top of their Nations League group with 10 points heading into Sunday’s final round of fixtures. 

France have also claimed 10 points but sit behind Italy on goal difference, goals scored and head to head. Belgium are in third on nine points and Turkey are in fourth place on zero points. 

Italy require a draw against Belgium on Sunday evening to guarantee a spot at the Nations League quarter-finals. A victory is required to claim top spot without relying on results elsewhere. Italy will need Turkey to beat France if they are to lose against Belgium and still qualify. 

Topping the group will come with two added benefits: Italy will be among the seeded teams in the Nations League quarter-finals if they win their group, and should that happen, they will face one of the second-placed teams from a different group. 

Additionally, the Azzurri will have the home advantage for the decisive second leg of the quarter-finals if they win their group.