Euro 2028 Early Power Rankings: Spain Leads, Portugal Moves On, Norway Faces Reality Check

The European Championship scheduled for 2028 in the UK and Ireland is still over 20 months away, but recent international matches offer early insights into how top UEFA teams are shaping up. None of the co-host nations—England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland—qualify automatically, leaving 24 group-stage spots open. Nations League games played recently have influenced seeding for the qualifiers set to start in March.

20. Ukraine

Despite ongoing challenges due to the conflict with Russia, Ukraine remains a strong contender. After a notable win against Hungary, their form dipped with a draw against Georgia and defeats at home to Northern Ireland and Hungary. The January return of Oleksandr Zinchenko could boost their qualification chances.

19. Poland

Poland continues its streak of qualifying for European Championships but missed the last World Cup. Robert Lewandowski, now playing in MLS, scored a hat-trick against Romania, though Poland struggled otherwise, earning only one point from three other games. Manager Jan Urban highlighted the team's lack of attacking support around Lewandowski.

18. Hungary

Hungary aims for a fourth consecutive Euro finals appearance. A shaky start with losses and draws was redeemed by back-to-back wins over Georgia and Ukraine. Manager Marco Rossi's future depends on upcoming results.

17. Wales

Wales, eager to capitalize on hosting opportunities, had a mixed break. A home victory over World Cup quarter-finalists Norway stood out, but they failed to score or gain points in other matches, including a costly home defeat to Denmark due to a goalkeeper error.

16. Turkiye

Turkiye endured a tough stretch with four straight defeats following a disappointing World Cup exit. They conceded 11 goals and managed just two themselves. Coach Vincenzo Montella is expected to be replaced as the team looks to recover.

15. Austria

Missing key players like Marko Arnautovic and David Alaba, Austria earned eight points from four matches, often scoring late goals to secure results. Their resilience could help them reach the knockout stages of another major tournament.

14. Sweden

Under Graham Potter, Sweden collected 10 points in the Nations League. Viktor Gyokeres impressed by scoring in every game despite Alexander Isak's injury. Sweden appear well placed to top their group in November.

13. Croatia

With Slaven Bilic back as coach after Zlatko Dalic's departure, Croatia’s performances were inconsistent. They suffered heavy losses, including conceding seven goals to England. Questions remain about continuing to field 41-year-old Luka Modric as the squad transitions.

12. Greece

Greece is showing signs of a new golden generation. They remained unbeaten in the Nations League, including an impressive win in Germany. Young talents like Christos Tzolis and Charalampos Kostoulas highlight a promising future.

11. Denmark

Denmark missed the World Cup but retains enough talent to aim for Euro 2028. Despite some mixed results, including narrow losses to Portugal and Norway, Rasmus Hojlund’s form and victories over Wales offer hope.

10. Italy

Roberto Mancini returned as coach following Italy’s World Cup miss. After an initial loss to Belgium, Italy rebounded with wins over Turkiye and a draw against France. Emerging players such as Michael Kayode and Alessandro Romano signal a fresh phase.

9. Belgium

Belgium, transitioning from their Golden Generation, started well under new coach Mark van Bommel with wins including a 2-0 victory in Italy. Kevin De Bruyne shone, but late defeats to France dampened momentum, indicating more work ahead.

8. Norway

Norway’s World Cup quarter-final run raised expectations, especially with Erling Haaland leading. Yet recent Nations League matches brought only one win and three losses, suggesting a post-tournament slump that they must overcome before qualifying begins.

7. Switzerland

Despite controversy involving two players, Switzerland dominated their Nations League group with four wins, scoring 11 goals and conceding just once. Their consistent deep runs in recent tournaments suggest strong prospects for 2028.

6. Netherlands

The Netherlands are rebuilding under new coach Xavi, returning to their classic Total Football style. They remain unbeaten in the Nations League, with young striker Mexx Meerdink making an impact. Captain Virgil van Dijk’s leadership is central.

5. Germany

Jurgen Klopp’s arrival sparked high hopes for Germany’s revival. His first four matches featured a mix of youth and experience, producing five points with one loss, two draws, and a win. Klopp is yet to finalize his strongest lineup.

4. Portugal

New coach Jorge Jesus guided Portugal to four straight wins during the break. Joao Felix and Goncalo Ramos impressed upfront, though Cristiano Ronaldo left the camp amid controversy. If Ronaldo is absent in 2028, Portugal might emerge as stronger contenders.

3. England

Thomas Tuchel’s England showed promise despite an opening loss to Spain. Wins over Czechia and a 7-0 rout of Croatia highlighted their attacking potential, with Harry Kane scoring six goals. Post-World Cup recalls like Jude Bellingham add depth.

2. France

Zinedine Zidane’s tenure has started positively despite Kylian Mbappe’s injury ruling him out of most matches. Michael Olise stepped up, scoring four goals and providing two assists. France’s blend of talent and new energy looks promising.

1. Spain

As reigning European and world champions, Spain look unstoppable. Young star Lamine Yamal led scoring in their first three matches, including a win at Wembley. Victories over Croatia and Czechia completed a perfect Nations League record, while Pedri and Mikel Merino contributed decisively.