Without shine, but ice cold: England beats Czech Republic in opening match
England made a successful start to the U-21 European Championship. The Three Lions weren't always convincing against the Czech Republic, but they were cool in front of goal.
Harvey Elliott provided the lead. IMAGO/Gribaudi/ImagePhoto
Defending champions England faced the Czech Republic in their tournament opener. Coach Lee Carsley initially left his most valuable player, Nwaneri, on the bench, with Hutchinson and Elliott starting on the wings.
The match in Dunajska Streda began intensely, especially because the Czech Republic was physically just as strong as the English. After McAtee's first attempt (6'), the Three Lions relinquished control somewhat, and from then on, the Czech Republic sniffed at the lead several times. However, Sejk narrowly missed a shot from the penalty area (13'), and Beadle also parried a header from Chaloupek (27').
At the other end, Hutchinson shot straight at Hornicek, but shortly afterward, the Czech goalkeeper was beaten by a powerful shot from Elliott (39'). England didn't play particularly well, but still went into the break with a lead, thanks in part to Beadle's save from an own goal by Quansah shortly before the end of the first period (42').
Cresswell makes everything clearShortly after the restart, England doubled their lead, but received a helping hand from Hornicek, who unluckily tipped the ball into his own net (48'). The Czech Republic, however, was not shocked, remained at least equal, and quickly reduced the deficit: Sejk delivered a delicate cross to Fila, who headed in from close range (51').
The Three Lions played a mostly unspectacular game, striving for control and rarely taking risks. Meanwhile, the Czech Republic lacked the quality to put England under sustained pressure. The game ultimately came after a corner, with Cresswell rising highest to head home the 3-1 lead (76').
The defending champions thus made no compromises in their opening match, and they continue their campaign against Slovenia on Sunday (6 p.m.). The Czech Republic will face the German U21 team shortly afterward (9 p.m.).
