France, Italy, Portugal Target Nations League Quarter-Finals

France, Italy, and Portugal are leading the charge to secure spots in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals, with Spain and Germany already qualified. Italy and Portugal need just one point to advance, while France is in a strong position ahead of their match against Israel, which is expected to be heavily policed amid rising tensions and calls for fans to avoid the game due to safety concerns. Defender Dayot Upamecano acknowledged the fears surrounding the match, emphasizing the desire for peace. Kylian Mbappe remains absent from the French squad due to a minor thigh injury and ongoing allegations reported by Swedish media, which he has dismissed as 'fake news.' Coach Didier Deschamps stated that Mbappe's absence is in the team's best interest, asserting the presumption of innocence regarding the investigation. The upcoming matches will finalize the teams advancing to the quarter-finals.