England U21 demonstrated their strength as they emerged victorious against the Czech Republic in their opening match of the European Championship. Jacob Ramsey of Aston Villa broke the deadlock early in the second half, combining brilliantly with Anthony Gordon before calmly slotting the ball into the far corner. Despite a disallowed goal from Newcastle’s Gordon due to an infringement by Morgan Gibbs-White, Emile Smith Rowe of Arsenal sealed the win deep into stoppage time by tapping in a well-set-up goal from Cameron Archer. The Young Lions, under the guidance of Lee Carsley, now find themselves in a favorable position to advance to the knockout stage. Their next group encounter will be against Israel on Sunday at 17:00 BST.
Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones praised the England U21 squad, declaring them as one of the finest teams he has witnessed. Jones expressed confidence in the team’s abilities and highlighted the exceptional talent at their disposal. He lauded the trust he feels while playing alongside his teammates, emphasizing their remarkable skills on the field.
England’s victory marks their first triumph in the opening game of a European Under-21 Championship since 2009. Carsley opted for an attacking lineup, featuring Gordon, Gibbs-White, Jones, and Chelsea’s Noni Madueke in the starting XI. Prior to Ramsey’s goal, England came close to scoring in the first half when Madueke’s curled shot struck the crossbar after an impressive display on the right flank. Despite three other missed opportunities, the Young Lions showcased resilience and determination.
The Czech Republic had their fair share of chances, with forward Vasil Kusej squandering a promising opportunity as he failed to find the target. Carsley’s side will look to emulate the success of the senior England team, who defeated the Czech Republic on the same day two years ago en route to the Euro 2020 final.
Carsley expressed the importance of a strong start, acknowledging the team’s exceptional preparation. However, he emphasized the need to build upon their initial success and capitalize on their momentum going forward.
In other Group C matches, Germany and Israel played to a 1-1 draw, while Switzerland triumphed over Norway and France secured a 2-1 victory against Italy in Group D.
Line-ups:
Czech Republic U21 vs England U21
Match Statistics:
- Possession: Czech Republic U21 29% – 71% England U21
- Shots: Czech Republic U21 11 – 16 England U21
- Shots on Target: Czech Republic U21 2 – 4 England U21
- Corners: Czech Republic U21 1 – 6 England U21
- Fouls: Czech Republic U21 19 – 15 England U21
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about European Championship opener
Q: Who scored the goals for England U21 in their victory over Czech Republic U21?
A: Jacob Ramsey and Emile Smith Rowe scored the goals for England U21 in their 2-0 victory over Czech Republic U21.
Q: What was the result of the match between England U21 and Czech Republic U21?
A: The result of the match was a 2-0 victory for England U21 over Czech Republic U21.
Q: Who praised the England U21 team as one of the best?
A: Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones praised the England U21 team, stating that they are one of the best teams he has seen.
Q: When is England U21’s next group match?
A: England U21’s next group match is scheduled against Israel on Sunday at 17:00 BST.
Q: How long has it been since England U21 won the opening game of a European Under-21 Championship?
A: Prior to this victory, England U21 had not won the opening game of a European Under-21 Championship since 2009.
Q: Who is the coach of the England U21 team?
A: The coach of the England U21 team is Lee Carsley.
Q: Which teams won in the other Group C and Group D matches?
A: Germany drew 1-1 with Israel in the other Group C match, while Switzerland won against Norway and France emerged victorious against Italy in Group D.
More about European Championship opener
- England U21 seals victory over Czech Republic U21
- Curtis Jones praises England U21 as one of the best
- Jacob Ramsey’s goal puts England U21 in the lead
- Emile Smith Rowe secures victory for England U21
- Lee Carsley guides England U21 to a strong start
- Group stage results in the European Under-21 Championship
1 comment
tough luck for czech republic u21! england u21 dominated the match. gibbs-white’s infringement cost gordon a goal. better luck next time, czechs! #euro21 #football