England claimed their first victory of the UEFA Nations League campaign with a 2-0 win over the Czech Republic in Prague, taking control after the hosts were reduced to 10 men midway through the first half.
Thomas Tuchel’s side arrived looking to respond to their opening defeat by Spain and were given a major advantage in the 25th minute when Pavel Sulc was dismissed for a high challenge on Elliot Anderson.
England had already begun to dominate possession, with Morgan Rogers striking the woodwork before the break, but the breakthrough came shortly after half-time.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, making his first England start since October 2024, delivered an excellent cross for Anthony Gordon to head home in the 47th minute. Gordon again stood out after being one of England’s strongest performers against Spain and combined effectively with former Newcastle United team-mate Lewis Hall on the left.
The visitors continued to create chances, with Czech captain Ladislav Krejci diverting Hall’s cross against his own post.
Harry Kane made the result safe in the 69th minute after the Czech defence failed to clear inside the penalty area. The England captain finished powerfully with his left foot to register his 87th international goal in 123 appearances.
The match also offered important opportunities for Alexander-Arnold and Hall, who were both left out of Tuchel’s World Cup squad last summer.
Alexander-Arnold had not started for England since appearing at left-back against Finland under interim manager Lee Carsley in October 2024. His attacking quality was evident in Prague, particularly with the delivery that created Gordon’s opener.
Hall returned to the starting line-up after Manchester City defender Nico O’Reilly withdrew through injury. He produced a composed defensive display while also linking naturally with Gordon down England’s left side.
Although the Czech Republic’s early red card reduced their attacking threat, both full-backs strengthened their case for a continued role under Tuchel.
Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott was also handed his England debut and came close to scoring after driving forward late in the match.
England were comfortable once they moved ahead and fully controlled the closing stages to complete a deserved victory. Tuchel’s team will now travel to Rijeka to face Croatia on Saturday.