England’s first win in this UEFA Nations League campaign came after they outplayed a 10-man Czech Republic side in Prague, thanks to decisive moments from Harry Kane and Anthony Gordon.
The match changed early when Pavel Sulc, the Czech Republic’s most dangerous player, was sent off after 25 minutes for a high challenge on Elliot Anderson. From then on, the Czech team struggled to create chances, and England grew in control.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, starting for England for the first time since October 2024, made an immediate impact. His precise cross found Anthony Gordon, who headed the ball home just after the break in the 47th minute. Gordon had been England’s standout player in their opening loss to Spain at Wembley and continued that form here. He linked well with Lewis Hall, the left-back who started in place of the injured Manchester City defender Nico O’Reilly.
England dominated much of the game. Morgan Rogers hit the woodwork in the first half, and after the break, Czech captain Ladislav Krejci almost scored an own goal when he turned one of Hall’s crosses onto the post. The pressure finally paid off again in the 69th minute when Harry Kane, England’s captain, scored his 87th goal in 123 appearances. The goal came after the Czech defence failed to clear properly, and Kane finished with a strong left-foot strike.
Thomas Tuchel’s choice of full-backs sent a clear message. Alexander-Arnold and Hall had both been left out of the World Cup squad last summer. Alexander-Arnold’s last start under Tuchel had been in October 2024 in Finland, and Hall had lost his spot to O’Reilly. This game was a chance for them to prove they belong in Tuchel’s plans. Despite the Czech Republic being down to 10 men, both players impressed. Alexander-Arnold’s cross for Gordon’s goal was described as world-class, while Hall held firm in defence and formed a natural partnership with Gordon on the left side.
Tuchel also gave Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott his England debut. Scott came close to scoring after a typical run forward but narrowly missed the target. His introduction added fresh energy late in the game.
England’s win was their first after losing their opening Nations League game at home to Spain. The result lifts them as they prepare to face Croatia in Rijeka on Saturday.
The match in Prague showed England’s ability to take advantage once they broke through a stubborn defence. The sending off of Sulc changed the game’s course, but England’s control and finishing made the victory well deserved. Kane’s goal underlined his ongoing importance to the team, while Gordon’s performance confirmed his rising status. Alexander-Arnold and Hall’s displays gave Tuchel reason to consider them seriously for upcoming matches.
England move on with confidence, but their challenge against Croatia will test if they can maintain the momentum away from home.
According to Joy Online.
