The international break came to an end, but before making their return to PSG, many stars had to play friendlies or crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying games to secure their spot to the biggest competition in world football. As it was the case for Portugal and Ukraine who looked to bounce back after their defeats in their first game of the window. Meanwhile, France who clinched their spot for the World Cup had nothing to play in their last game, other than to remain unbeaten throughout the qualifiers.
PSG players international duty report:
Portugal 9-1 Armenia:
Without Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal thrashed Armenia 9-1 in their last group stage game and secured their spot for the World Cup with three PSG players were in the starting line-up. Gonçalo Ramos made the most of this opportunity and scored in the win, while Joao Neves delivered a spectacular performance with a hat-trick. Vitinha featured for 67 minutes in the win.
Azerbaijan 1-3 France:
With France securing their seat at the next World Cup with their dominant win over Ukraine in the first game of the international window, Didier Deschamps opted to heavily rotate his squad, offering to Lucas Chevalier his official debut with the French national team against Azerbaijan. Additionally, Warren Zaire-Emery and Lucas Hernandez were also given the starting nod from their coach for this game. France went on to win this game with Bradley Barcola coming off the bench for the last 10 minutes of the game.
Ukraine 2-0 Iceland:
Illia Zabarnyi and Ukraine bounced back after their defeat to France as he played 90 minutes and they claimed an important 2-0 win over Iceland. The win meant that they secured the second spot of the group, earning them a playoff spot which will take place in March.
Bulgaria 2-1 Georgia:
After their large loss to Spain in the first game of the window, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Georgia fell 2-1 away against Bulgaria in their last 2026 World Cup qualifying game and finished at the third spot of Group E, far behind Spain and Türkiye.
Spain 2-2 Türkiye:
Fabian Ruiz featured 83 minutes for Spain as they sealed the top spot of Group E with a 2-2 draw against Türkiye at home. The 29-year-old delivered a solid performance to help his side guarantee a spot tot he upcoming World Cup.
Korea Republic 1-0 Ghana:
Lee Kang-In delivered an assist as Korea defeated Ghana in a friendly as both sides prepare for the upcoming World Cup and the AFCON. The PSG player played 87 minutes in this game and delivered a great performance for his country.
Senegal 8-0 Kenya:
After making his official debut with Senegal against Brazil, Ibrahim Mbaye made his first start with the national team in the dominant victory against Kenya. The 17-year-old had a great game as he contributed to three goals, opening his first international goal while also delivering two assists.
Brazil 1-1 Tunisia:
PSG captain Marquinhos featured for 90 minutes in Brazil's friendly against Tunisia, however, his side failed to bring home the win and conceded a frustrating draw.
Ecuador 2-0 New Zealand:
Willian Pacho played 90 minutes as Ecuador secured another win against New Zealand in friendly. The 24-year-old centre-back did not have a difficult game as his side dominated their opponents.
