The 2026/27 football season is taking a 16-day international break from September 21 to October 6, allowing national teams to play up to four matches. This break is part of a new FIFA international calendar that merged the traditional September and October windows. As a result, domestic football in Europe and other major leagues will pause, giving way to international action. Football fans will have plenty to watch, with UEFA Nations League matches, Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, CONCACAF Nations League games, and international friendlies scheduled.
For Nigerian football fans, the break provides an opportunity to follow the Super Eagles in their AFCON qualifying campaign. The Super Eagles are not the only team in action, as several nations use this window to test new coaches, players, and tactics. Some teams will be chasing qualification, while others will be defending titles. European and world football's leading nations will also be in action, making it an exciting period for football fans.
One of the biggest matches during the break is Netherlands vs Germany on September 24, in a UEFA Nations League fixture. Jürgen Klopp will make his Germany debut against the Netherlands, who will begin a new era under former Barcelona midfielder Xavi Hernández. This match is not only a heavyweight international fixture but also a meeting of two high-profile coaches starting their first Nations League campaigns.
Another notable match is Portugal vs Wales on September 24, also in the UEFA Nations League. Defending Nations League champions Portugal will begin their campaign under veteran coach Jorge Jesus, who replaced Roberto Martínez. Jesus will be expected to build on Portugal's success in the competition. Meanwhile, Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana will renew their rivalry in an AFCON 2027 qualifier on September 24.
The international break will also feature several friendlies, including Australia vs Brazil on September 25. Brazil will begin a series of international friendlies as they continue preparations under their new coaching setup. England and Spain will meet in a UEFA Nations League fixture on September 26, in one of the biggest games of the opening Nations League round. This match brings together two of Europe's leading national teams and gives England another major test against the reigning European champions.
Other notable matches during the break include Türkiye vs France on September 25, Italy vs Belgium on September 25, and Morocco vs Gabon on September 25, all in various competitions. These matches will provide an opportunity for teams to assess their players and combinations ahead of future competitions. The international break will also give coaches a chance to test new tactics and players.
The 20 matches to watch during the international break offer something for every football fan. From UEFA Nations League matches to AFCON qualifiers and friendlies, the action will be intense and exciting. Fans can look forward to seeing their favorite teams and players in action, as well as new coaches and players making their debuts.
Key points
- The 16-day international break features 20 top matches, including UEFA Nations League matches, AFCON qualifiers, and friendlies.
- Several national teams will use the break to test new coaches, players, and tactics.
- The break provides an opportunity for football fans to follow their favorite teams and players in action.
