A golden run for Slovakia as U23 claim the title and seniors take bronze.
The EMF Nations Games 2026 in Košice delivered an exciting showcase of European minifootball, with all six participating teams—Slovakia U23, Slovakia (senior team), Hungary, Ukraine, England, and Austria—playing crucial roles in a highly competitive tournament. The event served not only as a battle for medals but also as an important preparation stage ahead of the upcoming European Championship.
Group Stage: Tight Battles Across Both Groups
The competition began with two groups of three teams each.
In Group A, Slovakia U23 quickly emerged as a strong contender. They secured the top spot with four points, including a dominant 7:1 goal difference. Ukraine followed with two draws, showing defensive resilience but lacking a decisive edge in attack. Austria struggled, finishing third with just one point and conceding heavily.
In Group B, Hungary proved dominant, winning both matches and topping the group with six points. Slovakia (senior team) finished second after a win and a loss, while England endured a difficult group stage, losing both matches and finishing without a point.
Knockout Matches: Drama and Determination
The final day, featured placement matches for all teams.
- 5th Place Match: England defeated Austria 7:3, securing their only win of the tournament and avoiding last place. Austria, despite flashes of attacking potential, ended the competition at the bottom.
- 3rd Place Match: The senior Slovakia team delivered a strong performance against Ukraine, winning 3:0. Goals from Nestorik, Hudec, and Volf ensured a convincing victory and a bronze medal finish.
- Final: The championship match between Slovakia U23 and Hungary was a tense, tactical battle. After a goalless draw in regular time, Slovakia U23 triumphed 7:6 in a penalty shootout, with the decisive goal sealing a remarkable victory for the young squad.
Slovakia’s Double Achievement
The tournament was especially successful for Slovakia, with both national selections reaching the podium:
- Slovakia U23 claimed the title, showcasing composure and talent beyond their years.
- Slovakia (senior team) secured third place, bouncing back after a mixed group-stage performance.
This dual success underlines the depth of Slovak minifootball and provides a strong foundation ahead of EMF EURO 2026, which will also take place in Slovakia.
Hungary’s Strong Run
Despite losing in the final, Hungary impressed throughout the tournament. Their perfect group-stage record and disciplined performances demonstrated why they are considered one of the rising forces in European minifootball. Falling only on penalties in the final, they leave Košice with a silver medal and plenty of confidence.
Ukraine’s Consistency, But Missed Opportunity
Ukraine showed defensive stability in the group stage, drawing both matches and conceding only twice. However, their inability to convert chances proved costly, culminating in a 3:0 defeat in the bronze medal match.
England and Austria: A Battle for Redemption
Both England and Austria faced difficult campaigns. England struggled early but finished strongly with a convincing win over Austria. Austria, on the other hand, showed attacking intent but defensive vulnerabilities ultimately defined their tournament.
A Valuable Test Before EURO 2026
Beyond medals, the Nations Games served as a crucial testing ground. Teams used the tournament to finalize squads and build momentum ahead of the European Championship in Bratislava.
For Slovakia in particular, hosting both the Nations Games and the upcoming EURO presents a unique opportunity—and added pressure—to perform on home soil.
Final Standings Overview
- Slovakia U23 🥇
- Hungary 🥈
- Slovakia 🥉
- Ukraine
- England
- Austria
The EMF Nations Games 2026 showcased not just a champion, but a competitive and evolving European minifootball scene—where emerging talent, tactical discipline, and national pride all played their part.