And just like that, almost three weeks of international football just whizzed past and club football season is upon us again.
Borussia Dortmund had a large contingent of 20 players away on international duty during this period, including five who were called up with their nation's youth sides.
Many of the BVB boys had a good run over the last 18 days, showing up for their national teams rather heroically and making an impact. But these five had the best international campaign of them all:
5) Ethan Nwaneri (England U21)
After a near-immediate impact on his Dortmund debut, Nwaneri was struggling to pull up trees but was able to unlock his attacking best on the international stage with England's U21 side. He gave rivals a tough run for their money with his aggressive pressing and created openings after incisive forays. Nwaneri, on loan from Arsenal, now resumes club duties with his confidence restored.
4) Waldemar Anton (Germany)
He came in for Germany's last two games against Serbia and Greece, and helped the side keep a clean sheet in both. An unflinching defensive force to be reckoned with, Anton made a statement once again with his positional awareness but also made his presence felt offensively by pushing high up and helping build attacking momentum with precise passing.
3) Serhou Guirassy (Guinea)
Borussia Dortmund's chief targetman just had to be here. Although Guinea saw mixed results with a loss to South Africa and a win over Kenya, Guirassy made an impact in both.
Against the Bafana Bafana, he whipped in a free-kick that led to a crucial equalizer from Seydouba Cisse before netting the match-winner of their 1-0 win over Kenya.
2) Mathis Albert (USMNT)
Who would have thought that this kid who was struggling for regular gametime in the season, would end up have a remarkable international campaign?
A first USMNT cap. A penalty won inside three minutes of debut. A goal on his second appearance. A first start in his fourth cap. And this is only the beginning - we're eagerly looking forward to seeing how Albert develops with the national team ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
1) Joey Veerman (The Netherlands)
Back on to the international platform with a bang, Joey Veerman just showed what the Dutch had been missing in midfield since 2024 as he ran the show for the Oranje with his impeccable ball circulation, chance creations and vision.
His performances have already earned him monikers such as the 'Dutch Busquets' and the 'Dutch Pirlo', while almost certainly nailing down a spot in Xavi's XI too. Watch out for him during the Euro 2028 qualifiers next year.
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