MATCHDAY: Germany needs draw against Spain to advance
A look at what’s happening around European soccer on Tuesday:
SPAIN vs. GERMANY
Germany needs only a draw against Spain in their final Nations League Group 4 game to be sure of finishing top. However, Joachim Löw’s side is still not the finished article and could be in for a rude surprise. Löw has been tinkering with new call-ups and looking for players beyond his established Bayern Munich block but has been frustrated by stagnant play and uninspired performances. The
CROATIA vs. PORTUGAL
Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal is out of contention in Group 3 after losing to France 1-0 at home, while Croatia is in danger of being demoted if it doesn't get a good result against the defending champions. Ronaldo is seven goals shy of the men’s national team record held by former Iran striker Ali Daei with his 109.
FRANCE vs. SWEDEN
Already qualified for next year's Final Four following its 1-0 win at Portugal, France will likely continue to rotate after coach Didier Deschamps started 21 different players over the past two matches. The reigning world champion will be without the suspended N'Golo Kante while PSG striker Kylian Mbappe is expected to return. After beating Croatia 2-1, Sweden will be looking for a second consecutive win in its bid to avoid relegation from the Nations League top tier.
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