England secured their first victory in the Nations League with a commanding 2-0 performance against the Czech Republic, with Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane finding the back of the net. The result marked a significant step forward for Thomas Tuchel's side as they continue their campaign in the competition's top tier.
This win came after England's 3-2 victory over Spain on 26 September 2026, demonstrating the team's ability to compete at the highest level. England returned to League A after winning promotion from League B under interim manager Lee Carsley in autumn 2024, and performances like this suggest they belong among Europe's elite.
Who stood out for England?
Gordon continued his impressive form by scoring the opening goal and demonstrating why he has become increasingly vital to the Three Lions' attacking play. The winger was a constant threat operating behind the Czech defence and produced a dangerous cross in the first half that ultimately led to his breakthrough. His performance earned him an 8 rating, reflecting his growing importance to Tuchel's plans.
Kane, the England captain, had a quieter evening by his standards but still made his mark by finishing clinically inside the area during the second half to seal the victory. He dropped deep throughout the match to collect possession, earning a rating of 7.
In midfield, Elliot Anderson delivered a mature display, dominating possession and keeping England's build-up play flowing smoothly. He won back the ball effectively whenever the Czech Republic attempted to venture forward, receiving a 7 rating for his composed performance.
How did the defence perform?
England kept a clean sheet against the ten-man Czech side, though the defensive unit faced limited examination throughout the contest. Trevoh Chalobah began shakily, losing possession on several occasions and losing out in challenges that frustrated Tuchel, but he settled into the match and ensured no goals were conceded. He received a 6 rating.
Marc Guehi produced his customary reliable performance, making a couple of important blocks despite England not requiring extensive defensive work. Trent Alexander-Arnold, making his first England appearance in nearly two years, had little to do defensively but provided an excellent delivery for Gordon's opening goal, earning a 7. Lewis Hall combined effectively with Gordon on the left flank and posed a threat going forward, though he should have scored in the second half. He also received a 7.
James Trafford made a good save in the second half and demonstrated composure with the ball at his feet, showcasing his passing range in a way that pleased Tuchel. The goalkeeper earned a 6 rating.
What about the substitutes?
Eberechi Eze came on at half-time to replace Myles Lewis-Skelly, who had been booked for a mis-timed tackle and taken off early. Eze added a spark to midfield and received a 6 rating. Jude Bellingham took the captain's armband when he replaced Kane on 70 minutes and led the line, also earning a 6. Alex Scott made his England debut when introduced for Elliot Anderson at the same time, receiving a 6 rating. Rio Ngumoha came on for Bukayo Saka on 71 minutes with his first instinct being to drive forward, earning a 6. Morgan Gibbs-White replaced Gordon late in the match.
How did others perform?
Morgan Rogers played Bukayo Saka through with a nice pass early in the match and struck the post twice, though he was not afforded much room by a Czech side that defended very deep. He received a 6 rating. Saka himself had little of note to mark in what proved a cagey contest as England laboured when attempting to break down the Czech defence before Gordon's breakthrough, also earning a 6.
Lewis-Skelly started the game well and was given considerable responsibility in England's build-up play but his early promise was cut short by his booking and subsequent removal at the interval, receiving a 6 rating.
What comes next?
England are scheduled to play Croatia away on 3 October 2026, then host Czechia on 6 October, offering Tuchel further opportunities to assess his squad and build momentum in the Nations League campaign.
