Attack! Spain, France, Germany and Portugal embark on their journey outside the World Cup

With only nine months until the FIFA World Cup finals, Spain, Germany, France, and Portugal are embarking on their qualifiers.

Ranked second only to world champions Argentina, Spain suffered a penalty shootout loss against Portugal in the UEFA Nations League in June. Now, they're back outside the tournament, with their first match away to Bulgaria on Thursday, followed by a trip to Turkey three days later. With Yema and Ligo Williams in the lineup, and the return of Rodriguez and Landis, the Spanish team is widely favored to secure a spot in Group E. Coach Di Iafonte is not taking the opponent lightly: "Looking at Italy's two World Cup appearances, we know there are many steps to take before the finals, and we need to focus and get the job done."

Germany has not reached the semi-finals of either the World Cup or the European Cup since the 2016 European Nations Cup, and currently sits only 9th in the world rankings. However, this traditionally renowned team, led by Nagelsmann, stands out against a relatively weak group in the qualifying rounds. With summer transfers like Jorge Luis and Johann Wolframani transitioning to the international stage, they may find themselves more comfortable playing.

France reached the finals in two consecutive Finals Weeks, first in 2018 and then in 2022. This season, the focus was on the departure of coach Diggins, who resigned after the tournament. "Reaching Finals Week is never a given. At the highest level, you can be ruthless and brutal." Another highlight was Liverpool newcomer Ijedic, who received his first call-up and is expected to make his international debut.

Portugal, still centered around 40-year-old star Cristiano Ronaldo, prepared strongly for this year's World Cup exit, thanks to their triumphant UEFA Nations League victory this summer. This international break, the Portuguese team had an added mission: playing for Diogo González, who tragically passed away in a car accident two months ago. "We want to remember him every day," coach Martinez said.