Headline: UEFA Nations League Highlights: Spain and England Set for Showdown, Italy Victorious Over France
The aftermath of the UEFA Nations League matches takes center stage in European newspapers on Friday, November 13, 2026. Spain and England achieved significant victories, setting the scene for a much-anticipated clash for the top position on Sunday. Meanwhile, Italy staged a remarkable comeback to defeat France, and Manchester United made headlines with a managerial change.
The Spanish press is unified in its celebration of the national team following a commanding 2-0 win over the Czech Republic in Prague. Goals from Álex Baena, who converted a penalty, and Marc Pubill propelled Spain to victory. Marca heralds the team with the headline “On and on,” while AS emphasizes their achievement with “Win and win again,” underscoring Luis de la Fuente’s squad’s perfect record in the tournament.
In Catalonia, Mundo Deportivo headlines with “Five out of five,” while Sport dubs the team “Unbeatable,” noting that La Roja has gone unbeaten in 44 competitive matches and only needs a draw against England on Sunday to secure the top spot. Coverage also extends to Barça Women’s 1-1 draw against Arsenal in the Champions League, along with the difficulties faced by Real Betis and Levante in the Copa del Rey.
Italy’s standout performance of the round drew varied reactions from Milan and Paris. The Azzurri came back from a goal down after Olise opened the scoring, ultimately winning 3-1 against France thanks to two goals from Francesco Pio Esposito and another from Frattesi. La Gazzetta dello Sport passionately proclaims “Italy roars,” while Corriere dello Sport expresses gratitude to the national coach with “Thanks, Mancio.”
On the French side, L’Équipe delivered a harsh critique with the headline “Doused, sunk,” as Zinedine Zidane faced his first defeat as the head coach of Les Bleus.
In the United Kingdom, the spotlight splits between the national team and developments at Old Trafford. Daily Mirror and The Times both report on Harry Kane’s crucial penalty that led to a 2-1 victory over Croatia, marking him as England’s all-time most-capped player with 126 appearances. Meanwhile, The Daily Telegraph highlights the sacking of Michael Carrick, stating “Carrick hurt by United exit,” and confirms Manchester United’s agreement with Mauricio Pochettino to take over managerial duties next week.
