England claimed their first win in the Nations League by defeating the Czech Republic 2-0, with goals from Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane securing the three points.
Gordon, who has become an increasingly vital figure for the Three Lions, opened the scoring and was rated highly for his continuous threat in behind the defensive line. Kane added a second-half strike with a composed finish inside the area, despite a generally quiet performance where he dropped deep to collect possession.
BBC Sport reporter Alex Howell provided the following player ratings for the match:
James Trafford (6): The goalkeeper kept a clean sheet, displaying calmness with the ball at his feet and excellent passing range that pleased manager Thomas Tuchel. He made a key save in the second half.
Trent Alexander-Arnold (7): Starting his first England game in nearly two years, Alexander-Arnold was defensively untroubled but provided a crucial assist for the opening goal.
Trevoh Chalobah (6): The centre-back had a shaky beginning, losing possession and missing challenges, which frustrated Tuchel. However, he settled into the game and helped ensure England held off the 10-man Czech side to keep a clean sheet.
Marc Guehi (6): Delivered a typically reliable defensive display, contributing several important blocks despite the team facing limited defensive pressure.
Lewis Hall (7): The left-back partnered well with Gordon and provided a strong attacking outlet. He was dangerous going forward and should have scored in the second half.
Elliot Anderson (7): Dominated the midfield with a mature performance, keeping possession and regaining it whenever the Czech Republic advanced.
Myles Lewis-Skelly (6): Started brightly and was entrusted with significant responsibility in build-up play but was booked for a mistimed tackle before being substituted at half-time.
Morgan Rogers (6): Created chances for others, including a nice pass that sent Bukayo Saka through on goal, and hit the post twice. However, he was restricted for space by the Czech side’s deep defensive block.
Bukayo Saka (6): Had a quiet evening as England struggled to break down the Czech defence before Gordon’s goal. The match was cagey, offering Saka little of note.
Anthony Gordon (8): A standout performer who was a constant threat. His dangerous first-half cross deservedly led to a goal, reinforcing his growing importance to the national team.
Harry Kane (7): Operated deeper than usual in a quieter night but still managed to score with a quality finish inside the box during the second half.
England made several substitutions, with Eberechi Eze coming on for Lewis-Skelly at half-time to add spark to the midfield. Jude Bellingham replaced Kane in the 70th minute and took the captain’s armband. Alex Scott made his debut for England, replacing Anderson, while Rio Ngumoha came on for Saka and Morgan Gibbs-White replaced Gordon.
Unused substitutes included goalkeepers Pickford and Steele, along with defenders Konsa, Branthwaite, and Quansah, and forwards Garner and Calvert-Lewin.
Kane looked a bit off his usual self dropping deep, but the goal counted. Finally got that first Nations League win under Tuchel!
Gordon was absolutely brilliant tonight! That 8 rating feels so deserved. He’s really stepping up as a key player for Tuchel.