That nations league effect seems to have rubbed off to friendlies as well. Not only did

Belgium and Holland choose to play each other rather than go through the motions against Kyrgyzstan or something which they usually do after a high level competitive game, but they’ve both started with their top available players and they are both going for it as well. Another bloody good game so far.

I suspect that when you get them together and at least one of the games is competitive against a team close to your own level (nations league) then it’s so much easier to motivate and generate focus and energy for the whole international period even if the other game you’re together for is a friendly.

Posted By: Steve in Holland, Oct 16, 20:19:30