Nations League: England secures dominant victory against Czech Republic

England secures their first win in the second group stage match of the UEFA Nations League in League A.

In Prague, the "Three Lions" convincingly defeated the Czech Republic 2-0. Anthony Gordon (47.) and Harry Kane (69.) scored the goals.

However, the hosts had the first big chance. After five minutes, Anderson lost the ball in his own half, inviting the Czechs to counter. England's keeper Trafford, however, prevented an early deficit with a strong save.

The "Three Lions" subsequently took increasing control and had more possession. However, the Czechs remained dangerous with quick transition moments.

Early Red Card

In the early phase of the match, the Czech Republic showed active tackling and a generally dynamic performance, which caused problems for the English.

Under new Spanish national coach Santi Denia, the team initially showed a different face than at the 2026 World Cup, where the Czech Republic disappointed and finished last in their group stage.

In the 23rd minute, however, the underdog suffered a major setback: After a harsh tackle by Sulc on Anderson's ankle, the referee showed the Czech midfielder a red card following a VAR review.

England had even more possession with the numerical advantage, but initially didn't create enough clear-cut chances against the depleted Czechs. Shortly before halftime, Czech Republic goalkeeper Kovar prevented an English lead with a brilliant save against Harry Kane. The teams went into the break goalless. 

Gordon breaks the deadlock for England

Just one minute after the restart, however, Tuchel's team managed a decisive breakthrough: Following a misplaced pass in the Czechs' build-up play, Alexander-Arnold delivered a strong cross into the box, which Gordon headed in for 1-0 against the direction Kovar was moving.

Subsequently, a largely one-sided match unfolded, predominantly taking place in the Czech half. In the 69th minute, Harry Kane secured the decisive goal. In the Czech penalty area, the ball landed at the feet of the Bayern striker after a rebound, and he didn't pass up the chance for his 87th goal for the "Three Lions".

The fact that no further goals were scored until the end of the match was also thanks to Czech Republic goalkeeper Kovar, who made several strong saves.

With the 2-0 victory, England moves up to second place in Group 3 of League A. World and European champions Spain remain top of the group after defeating Croatia in the parallel match.