The Euro XI: Erling Haaland Smashes Records, Bukayo Saka Shines, And Belgium Falters

The international break has once again delivered drama, surprises, and a few record-breaking moments. While club football fans count the days until domestic leagues resume, national teams across Europe are busy shaping their paths to the 2026 World Cup.

From Erling Haaland’s unstoppable form to England’s dominance under Thomas Tuchel, and Belgium’s growing flaws, here are the biggest talking points from The Euro XI.

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Erling Haaland The Goal Machine
Stop us if you’ve heard this before — Erling Haaland just can’t stop scoring goals. The Norwegian striker missed two penalties against Israel but still managed to score a hat-trick in Norway’s 5-0 win.

That performance took his international tally to 51 goals in just 46 appearances — a record that puts him in rare company. For context, Lionel Messi needed 107 games to reach that mark for Argentina. Haaland’s numbers are simply absurd, proving he’s just as lethal in national colors as he is for Manchester City.

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Bukayo Saka Shines For England
England’s 3-0 victory over Wales showcased just how crucial Bukayo Saka has become under Thomas Tuchel. The Arsenal winger ran the show, creating chances, linking play beautifully, and proving once again why he’s one of Europe’s brightest stars.

Tuchel’s England continues to look more fluid and composed, even if the fans were a bit quiet. If the Three Lions keep this form, they could finally break their decades-long curse — though history tells us not to get too excited just yet.

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Faroe Islands Steal Hearts
If you didn’t know where the Faroe Islands were before, now’s the time to find out. The tiny nation stunned Europe with a 2-1 win over Czechia, keeping their qualification hopes alive.

Currently ranked 136th in the world, the team’s fairy-tale run could continue — though they face undefeated Croatia next. Football loves an underdog story, and this one might just be the best of the qualifiers so far.

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Belgium’s Growing Problems
Meanwhile, all isn’t well with Kevin De Bruyne and Belgium. Despite a talented squad, the Red Devils have struggled to find rhythm. Their disjointed performances have raised eyebrows, and whispers of internal issues are beginning to surface.

For a nation that once topped FIFA’s world rankings, the cracks are becoming harder to ignore.

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From Haaland’s record-breaking exploits to Saka’s brilliance and Faroe Islands’ dream run, this international break proves one thing — football never sleeps, even when the clubs do.