London, Dec 5 (IANS): European football governing body UEFA has scheduled its first ‘Nations League’ in September and October 2018. The competition has been brought in to replace a number of friendly encounters.

According to Daily Mail, UEFA’s 52 countries would be split into four divisions, each with groups of three or four teams. The winners of the four groups in division A would be made up of the strongest teams who would feature in the semi-finals and final in June 2019 to become the UEFA Nations League champions.

The four semi-finalists of the tournament would also automatically qualify for the finals of Euro 2020, which is to be played in 13 countries across Europe with the final at London’s Wembley stadium.

"The key driver of the UEFA Nations League is sporting integrity, as member associations, coaches, players and supporters increasingly feel that friendly internationals are not providing adequate sporting competition," UEFA said in a statement.

"In addition, the competition will help UEFA realise its stated goal of improving the quality and standing of national team football while maintaining the balance between club and international football."

"The competition will establish the UEFA Nations League champions every odd year while also allowing all nations to play competitively at their level," the statement added.