England’s bid to retain their UEFA European Under-21 Championship crown got off to the perfect start on Thursday evening, as Lee Carsley’s young Lions dispatched the Czech Republic 3-1 in a confident opening performance. Widely tipped as one of the favourites to lift the trophy, England’s unbeaten streak now extends to eight matches (W7, D1), underlining their credentials as serious contenders.
The victory also saw England notch their eighth successive win at the Euro U21 finals, a run only bettered once in the tournament’s storied history, with six of those victories coming with clean sheets. That defensive solidity, combined with a potent attack, forms the bedrock of a team eyeing a record-equalling fourth European U21 title.
Attention now turns to Sunday’s clash against Slovenia, a side they’ve historically held the edge over (W2, D2, L1). With momentum on their side and a commanding presence in the group, England will be looking to strengthen their grip on qualification and extend their formidable form.
For Slovenia, however, the stakes are significantly higher. Their tournament began in disappointing fashion with a 3-0 defeat to Germany, a result that stretched their winless run in the competition to four matches (D1, L3). Another loss here would almost certainly signal the end of their campaign.
The outlook has been equally bleak outside of the tournament, with Slovenia winless in five internationals since a 2-0 victory over Cyprus last September (D3, L2). Goals have been their major shortcoming, with just four scored across that period and three of those coming in the second half of matches.
Players to Watch:
England winger Jonathan Rowe proved decisive against the Czechs, netting the crucial second goal just as he had in his last four club goals, all of which came after the break. Slovenia’s hopes may rest on midfielder Svit Sešlar, who had a standout domestic campaign with NK Celje, registering 10 goals and 12 assists in 26 league matches. Notably, his last four goals at club level all arrived before half-time.
Hot Stat:
England’s last three internationals have produced a total of 18 goals with five of those scored inside the first ten minutes. Expect fireworks from the off.
