England recover from Spain defeat with Nations League win in Czech Republic

England responded to their opening UEFA Nations League defeat by beating 10-man Czech Republic 2-0 in Prague, with Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane scoring the goals.

Thomas Tuchel’s side had started their campaign with a 3-2 loss to world champions Spain at Wembley the previous weekend. Their task in Prague was made easier after Czech Republic were reduced to 10 players midway through the first half, although England had to wait until after the interval to make their numerical advantage count.

Pavel Sulc was shown a red card after 25 minutes for a high challenge on Elliot Anderson. Despite playing a man down, the hosts defended resolutely and frustrated England for the remainder of the opening period.

England finally broke through two minutes after half-time. Trent Alexander-Arnold, making his first start for England since October 2024, delivered an excellent cross into the area, and Gordon met it with a header to give the visitors the lead in the 47th minute.

Czech Republic continued to resist, but England controlled possession and territory with both a goal advantage and an extra player. Tuchel’s team created sustained pressure without being able to add a second goal immediately.

That pressure eventually told with 20 minutes remaining. England captain Kane reacted quickest from close range after the home defence failed to clear the danger, securing the result and ending any remaining uncertainty over the outcome.

The victory also provided an opportunity for Tuchel to introduce Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott for his England debut. Scott almost marked the occasion with a goal, but his effort following one of his trademark forward runs went narrowly wide.

England’s performance earned them a deserved three points and a first win in the competition. They will next face Croatia in Rijeka on Saturday.