How promotion, relegation and knockouts work in Nations League

What the report says

BBC Sport explains how the 2026-27 Uefa Nations League is set to unfold as the group stage reaches its fourth round of matches, with England among the teams nearing key milestones. England could move closer to the quarter-finals with a win over the Czech Republic at Wembley, while Portugal are already assured of a place in the last eight. The top two teams from each of the four League A groups will advance to the knockout rounds, which begin in March 2027.

The article also sets out the competition’s promotion and relegation rules. Group winners in Leagues B and C will move up for the next Nations League cycle, while second-placed teams in those leagues will enter play-offs against third-placed teams from the division above. Bottom-placed teams in Leagues A and B face relegation, and the loser of a play-off can also drop down. BBC Sport notes that changes are coming for the 2028-29 cycle, including a new structure with three larger leagues and no League D.

Several home nations are in different positions across the groups. Wales are in a tight fight with Portugal, Denmark and Norway, Scotland are battling in League B, Northern Ireland lead their group and could secure promotion, and the Republic of Ireland remain in contention for a top-two finish. The piece also links Nations League performance to Euro 2028 qualification, saying rankings from this competition will affect the route to the tournament, which will be staged in England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland.