The final rounds of Nations League games in the next week bring the 2026 World Cup sharply into focus in Europe.

What do England need to gain promotion from the Nations League and what are the permutations? And how could they also secure a World Cup play-off spot?

Aside from adding some much-needed excitement to the frequent international breaks, the UEFA Nations League also opens up an alternative path for teams aiming to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. This tournament serves as a bridge between Euro 2024 and the next World Cup,

The league stage of the second edition of the UEFA Women's Nations League begins on Friday 21 February. Find out all the fixtures as the teams in League A compete for finals spots, with promotion and relegation also at stake throughout the leagues.

BBC Sport looks at what England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have to play for in the Nations League - and how it ties into the World Cup.