Five things we learned from September’s Euro 2016 qualifiers

British Isles nations can compete
Wales have proved more than anyone that anything is possible in these international events, as they sit on the cusp of their first major tournament since 1958, thanks to Gareth Bale’s heroics against Cyprus.

A goalless draw with Israel saw the Welsh’s qualification put on ice for now, but the Republic of Ireland’s defiant efforts to fight back from a seemingly down and out position has revived their Euro beliefs.

Martin O’Neill’s Boys in Green are close to a play-off or potentially an automatic qualifying spot, having overcome Gibraltar and Georgia in September, keeping them in a hopeful position for next month’s final fixtures against Germany and Poland.

Youth injection needed
Despite clinching back-to-back victories this month in their latest qualifiers, 2006 World Cup winners Italy are relying heavily on their ageing stars, having only narrowly defeated both Bulgaria and minnows Malta 1-0 on home soil.

The same can be said for Portugal, who saw their Under-21 side rally to their version of the European Championships this summer, but Fernando Santos is truly reluctant to delve into his younger crop of starlets for help towards his senior set-up.

Portugal are overdependent on Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, as usual, for the majority of their goals and inspiration, but he would benefit massively from younger, more energetic legs around him, especially at the tournament itself.

Antonio Conte’s Azzurri are similar in terms of midfield prowess, still seeking creative inspiration from veteran Andrea Pirlo. Both nations have managed to climb to the summit of their groups, but a switch to younger personnel is needed in order to make a genuine impact next summer.

Belgium can challenge
Belgium’s resurgence as a footballing force has continued, despite previous setbacks, after dispatching Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as Cyprus this month to go a close second behind Wales in Group B.

Nicknamed the Red Devils and under the watchful eye of Marc Wilmots, Belgium are 10/1 to go all the way next year, having tested themselves by reaching the World Cup quarter-finals last summer. Only a fool would write them off at this stage.