Misconception: Why the Armenian team should not lose to Georgia for the sake of Euro 2028
Recently, among fans and even some experts, an opinion has emerged that the Armenian national football team should deliberately lose to Georgia in the UEFA Nations League playoffs to remain in League C. It is believed that this would supposedly make it easier to qualify for Euro 2028 through the Nations League. However, this is a deeply flawed judgment that fails to consider all the nuances of UEFA regulations and the current football reality. Let's break down why such a strategy is not only ineffective but could also harm the development of Armenian football.
Euro 2028: Qualification Specifics
Euro 2028 will be held in the United Kingdom, meaning that four teams—England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland—will act as host nations. UEFA has allocated two spots for such teams, but all four will participate in the regular qualification cycle. If two of them qualify directly for the tournament, the remaining two will automatically receive host nation spots. If only one or none of them qualify, additional spots will be distributed among the remaining teams, possibly through playoffs.
This point is crucial to understand: if two UK teams qualify directly, the two additional host nation spots will be "deducted" from the Nations League quota. In this case, teams from League C may not even get a chance to participate in the playoffs, as priority will be given to teams from Leagues A and B.
Why Staying in League C is a Bad Idea?
Deliberately losing to Georgia in the playoffs and staying in League C might seem tempting, but it is a strategically incorrect decision. Firstly, League C does not align with the ambitions of the Armenian national team. By remaining in this league, the team deprives itself of the opportunity to play against stronger opponents, which is essential for growth and development. Secondly, even if the team stays in League C, it does not guarantee an easy path to Euro 2028 through the Nations League, given the aforementioned quota nuances.
Moreover, it is important to remember that football is not just about results but also about the process. The Armenian national team should strive for progress, not tactical manipulations. Promotion to League B would be a significant step in strengthening Armenian football's position on the international stage.
The Match Against Georgia: More Than Just a "Caucasian Derby"
The match between Armenia and Georgia is not only a crucial "Caucasian derby" but also an important tournament fixture. For Georgia, as well as for Armenia, this match holds immense significance. Georgia also understands the importance of this game.
"In short, relegation to League C would be a disaster, as our reality is this: we only have a chance to play in major tournaments through the Nations League, and the Georgian national team is not yet competitive enough in traditional qualifiers," writes europop.ge.
Therefore, the Georgian national team will fight with all their might, and Armenia must be prepared for serious resistance.