
England responded to their opening UEFA Nations League defeat with a 2-0 victory over Czech Republic in Prague on Tuesday, with Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane finding the net in the second half.
The result gives Thomas Tuchel’s England their first points of the Nations League campaign after the Three Lions lost 3-2 to Spain at Wembley in their opening Group A3 fixture.
The match also produced a significant moment for Trent Alexander-Arnold, who made his first England start under Tuchel and played a key role in breaking the deadlock.
Tuchel made several changes to his side following the defeat against Spain, with Alexander-Arnold starting at right-back.
The Real Madrid defender had not started for England in almost two years, but he quickly demonstrated the attacking quality that has long been associated with his game.
After Czech Republic midfielder Pavel Sulc was sent off in the 24th minute following a VAR review of his challenge on Elliot Anderson, England had an extra-man advantage. However, the hosts continued to frustrate the visitors through the remainder of the first half.
England eventually found the breakthrough just two minutes after the interval.
Alexander-Arnold delivered a precise, whipped cross from the right flank, and Anthony Gordon produced an excellent header to send the ball into the far corner.
It was Gordon’s third goal in his last three England appearances, continuing his recent scoring run for the national team.
England continued to control the match after taking the lead, with Czech Republic struggling to create an equaliser while playing with 10 men.
In the 69th minute, Harry Kane doubled England’s advantage.
The England captain finished to score his 87th international goal, further extending his record-breaking tally for the national team.
The second goal effectively settled the contest, although England had opportunities to add to their advantage late in the game.
The victory also provided a welcome defensive boost for Tuchel. England had conceded 13 goals across their previous six matches, but they kept a clean sheet in Prague.
Morgan Rogers also featured in Tuchel’s starting lineup and came close to giving England an early lead.
The Chelsea forward struck the post during the first half as England looked to break through the Czech defence.
Despite England's attacking threat, Czech Republic had periods of pressure before Sulc's dismissal changed the balance of the match.
After the red card, England were able to take greater control, eventually turning their numerical advantage into two second-half goals.
Alexander-Arnold’s performance was one of the major talking points after the match.
Tuchel praised the defender's contribution, particularly his ability to provide a decisive delivery for Gordon's opener. The England manager also highlighted Alexander-Arnold's security in possession and his defensive work.
For Alexander-Arnold, the appearance was an important return to the England starting XI after a period in which his international role had been limited.
Gordon also praised his teammate after the game, describing Alexander-Arnold's delivery as something only a small number of players could consistently produce.
The 2-0 victory puts England on the board in UEFA Nations League Group A3 after their opening defeat to Spain.
The Three Lions will now turn their attention to Croatia, with their next Nations League fixture scheduled for October 3.
For Tuchel, the result provides a response after the disappointment against Spain while also giving him another look at Alexander-Arnold, Gordon and Rogers as England continue to develop their squad.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Czech Republic 0-2 England |
| Competition | UEFA Nations League 2026-27 |
| Group | League A, Group A3 |
| Venue | Fortuna Arena, Prague |
| England scorers | Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane |
| Gordon goal | 47th minute |
| Kane goal | 69th minute |
| Czech Republic red card | Pavel Sulc, 24th minute |
| Key assist | Trent Alexander-Arnold |
| England's next match | Croatia vs England |