Nations League: Rampant England hit seven under Tuchel as Ronaldo walks out on Portugal

On 3 October 2026, England, under the stewardship of new manager Thomas Tuchel, demolished Croatia 7-0 away from home in the Nations League. Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka both bagged braces, forcing opposing captain Luka Modric to admit his embarrassment after the historic defeat.

On the same day, the Portugal camp was thrown into turmoil as 41-year-old superstar Cristiano Ronaldo walked out of the training camp ahead of their clash with Denmark, disgruntled at being benched. The forward now faces a potential suspension of one to six months from the Portuguese Football Federation.

England demolish Croatia 7-0 under Thomas Tuchel

On 3 October 2026, England set a historic Nations League milestone with a sensational 7-0 demolition of Croatia on their own turf. It was a resounding statement of intent from the Three Lions under new manager Thomas Tuchel.

Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka were the standout performers, with both players bagging a brace. England's relentless, high-tempo attacking play quickly choked out any defensive resistance from the hosts.

The humiliating defeat on home soil forced Croatia captain Luka Modric to publicly admit his embarrassment. The veteran midfielder conceded that Croatia were completely powerless against their opponents' overwhelming attacking prowess.

Spain down Czech Republic to maintain perfect run

Spain continued to show their champions' pedigree with a convincing 3-1 victory over the Czech Republic in Oviedo on 3 October 2026. The result maintains La Roja's perfect winning run in Nations League Group A3.

Wonderkid Lamine Yamal shone brightly, opening the scoring with a spectacular long-range strike. This marked the young forward's fourth goal of this Nations League campaign, cementing his status as a key figure in Luis de la Fuente's side.

Portugal camp in turmoil over Cristiano Ronaldo

Superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, has walked out of the Portugal squad ahead of their fixture against Denmark. The decision was made after the iconic number seven grew disgruntled with his place on the substitutes' bench.

Amid mounting public criticism, midfielder Bruno Fernandes has leaped to his teammate's defence. Bruno insisted that Ronaldo's influence on the national team remains immense and called for respect to be shown to the superstar.

However, walking out on his country has left Ronaldo facing severe disciplinary action. The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) is currently considering a suspension of between one and six months for the striker.

Ireland vs Israel press conference cancelled amid political tensions

The pre-match press conference on 3 October 2026 ahead of the League B Group B3 clash between Ireland and Israel was abruptly cancelled. The decision followed allegations from Israeli journalists accusing Irish players of racist behaviour in the reverse fixture.

The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) immediately rejected the allegations. To ensure security amid escalating political tensions, the return fixture will be played behind closed doors at a neutral venue in Serbia on 4 October 2026.

Scotland claim first win under manager Pocognoli

Scotland secured a 2-0 victory away to North Macedonia in League B Group B1. The result delivered all three points and a maiden win for new manager Sébastien Pocognoli.

Kieron Bowie opened the scoring in just the seventh minute, before John McGinn sealed the win in the 69th minute. The match also marked a historic milestone as captain Andy Robertson earned his 100th international cap.

Estonia edge past Luxembourg thanks to early strike

Estonia claimed a 1-0 victory over Luxembourg in League C Group C4, courtesy of an early fifth-minute strike from Rasmus Peetson. The hosts successfully defended their early advantage under sustained pressure from the visitors.

The three points lift Estonia to second in the group with five points from three matches, keeping them in the hunt for top spot and promotion to League B.

Author's Verdict

This round of Nations League fixtures concluded with stark contrasts, as England demolished Croatia 7-0 to kickstart the Thomas Tuchel era, while Spain cemented their spot at the top with a convincing 3-1 win over the Czech Republic. Yet, beyond the on-pitch action, the tournament has been overshadowed by off-field drama and disciplinary scandals.

The spotlight now intensifies on Portugal following Cristiano Ronaldo's decision to walk out on the squad after being benched. Do you think Ronaldo should face a heavy sanction from the FPF for his walkout?