The potato cyst nematodes (PCN), Globodera rostochiensis and Globodera pallida, are one of the greatest threats for potato crops worldwide. These species are considered quarantine pests and are subjected to strict regulatory measures in many countries. As they are morphologically very similar, robust methodologies are essential for their identification in order to make their control and management more effective. The identification of Globodera species based on morphology may be ambiguous due to the variability of the main morphological features and an overlapping of the standard parameters between the two species. Thus, confirmation via molecular methods is recommended. PCR tests with species-specific primers allow distinguishing both species and can be used for routine analysis. However, despite the development of molecular identification methods, the use of the morphological approach remains useful, hence being two complementary approaches. Positive detections from yearly surveys of soil samples for G. pallida are rising in contrast to G. rostochiensis, which was the most widespread species in many countries. This leads to question whether the PCN control measures are being effective, namely the use of G. rostochiensis resistant potato cultivars; or if G. pallida is being privileged, where G. rostochiensis resistant potato cultivars are used for its control. The distinction between species is therefore essential in order to detect their presence in production fields with a view to re-evaluating the control measures so far implemented and adopting more effective practices. New identification approaches are being developed, such as the use of sensors, satellites, and drones.