England edge Czech Republic as Barcelona’s Anthony Gordon heads home Real Madrid cross

England moved ahead against Czech Republic as Anthony Gordon struck in the 47th minute of their Nations League match on Tuesday.

The Barcelona forward converted a precise cross from Trent Alexander-Arnold, meeting the delivery with a controlled header that sent the ball away from the goalkeeper and into the far side of the net.

The goal came immediately after half-time and continued Gordon’s strong start to the international campaign. He had also scored in England’s opening Nations League fixture against Spain, although La Roja won that match 3-2.

England had dominated possession and territory for much of the game, with their advantage strengthened by Czech Republic’s dismissal of Pavel Sulc in the 25th minute. The red card forced the hosts to retreat towards their own penalty area as England maintained sustained pressure.

Gordon’s goal also brought together players associated with Spain’s two leading clubs. Gordon joined Barcelona at the start of the current season after leaving Newcastle, while Alexander-Arnold has been with Real Madrid since moving to the club from Liverpool in the season before last.

The combination produced the decisive moment as England looked to build on their performance against Spain and claim their first victory of the Nations League campaign.