Nations League news: England get campaign up and running with 2-0 win over Czechia

England secured their first Nations League win of the campaign with a 2-0 victory over Czechia in Prague on Tuesday.

The Three Lions struggled to find their rhythm early on as the hosts created some promising chances.

However, Pavel Šulc’s first-half red card changed the game – his yellow card being upgraded following a VAR review for a high challenge on Elliot Anderson.

England still had to wait until the second half to break the deadlock, though, with Anthony Gordon continuing his impressive run of form for the national team.

Gordon and Alexander-Arnold combine before Kane doubles lead

Gordon opened the scoring just two minutes after the restart.

Trent Alexander-Arnold, making his first England start in two years, produced an excellent cross for the Barcelona winger to head home.

Alexander-Arnold revealed after the match that he had spoken to Gordon at half-time about making that exact run.

“I spoke to Anthony at half-time and I said if I’m getting in the half spaces and putting them [crosses] in, make sure you get to the back post,” the full-back told ITV.

“You don’t expect it to happen that quickly, but it did and it worked.”

Gordon was named man of the match after another strong performance for Thomas Tuchel’s side.

He also praised Alexander-Arnold for the quality of his delivery while speaking to ITV: “I make that run time and time again and only a certain type of player has got the technique, ability and bravery to make the mistake playing that pass.

“Credit to Trent, that’s why he’s so good. I’ve been dying to play with him for that reason.

“Trent’s had his own journey with England. He would have liked to have played more than he has, but he’s a great character. He’s a great addition.”

Harry Kane then doubled England’s advantage in the 69th minute, sweeping the ball into the far corner for his 87th international goal.

It was also his ninth goal for England in 2026.

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Tuchel: ‘It was a deserved victory’

Meanwhile, Tuchel was pleased with how his side improved after the break.

“We played very professionally in the second half. We stepped up, we needed to be a bit more dynamic and put a bit more urgency into our play,” Tuchel said on ITV.

“We kept the intensity going and it was very professional. The effort was still there, it was a deserved victory.

“It’s a bit strange to get an early red card. It’s not the best for the spectators or the teams.

“But we got an important win, and that’s what counts.”

The result gives England an important three points as they prepare to face Croatia away on October 3.

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