England`s Under-21 team has successfully defended their European Championship title, triumphing over Germany with a 3-2 victory after extra time in a dramatic final.
Lee Carsley`s squad started the match brightly. The in-form Harvey Elliott opened the scoring just five minutes into the game. Omari Hutchinson extended England`s lead to 2-0 in the 24th minute.
However, Germany fought back before the break, with Nelson Weiper`s header halving the deficit right on the stroke of halftime. Germany then found a crucial equalizer through Paul Nebel on the hour mark, sending the tense final into extra time.
Just minutes into the additional period, England`s substitute Jonathan Rowe made an immediate impact, heading in the goal that would ultimately secure the title for the Young Lions. Germany pushed hard for a late equalizer, hitting the crossbar in the final moments of extra time, but Carsley`s side held on to clinch successive European crowns.
Match Summary
- Final Result: England 3-2 Germany (AET)
- England Team: Beadle; Hinshelwood, Quansah, Cresswell, Livramento; Scott, Anderson; Hutchinson, McAtee, Elliott; Stansfield
- Germany Team: Atubolu; Collins, Oermann, Arrey-Mbi, Brown; Nebel, Martel, Reitz; Gruda, Woltemade, Weiper
Coach Lee Carsley expressed immense pride in his players following the victory. He highlighted their commitment over the past month and their impressive ability to quickly implement coaching instructions. Carsley noted the strong belief within the squad in their capability to win, stating that this mindset is crucial. Looking ahead, he declared the challenge is now to win the tournament for a third consecutive time in two years.
Carsley acknowledged that England didn`t play their best football in the final, admitting they sat too deep and lacked some control, but emphasized the importance of enjoying the significant achievement of becoming European champions for a second time.
Former England Under-21 captain Nigel Reo-Coker praised Carsley`s approach, particularly his faith in assembling a squad that included players with varying levels of experience. He felt the players responded well to the trust placed in them.
Match-winner Jonathan Rowe shared his personal joy at scoring the decisive goal. He stated he was happy to make a difference and help the team secure the win, especially in front of “important people,” and looked forward to celebrating.
With this victory, Lee Carsley becomes the first manager since Dave Sexton (1982, 1984) to guide England`s Under-21 side to two consecutive European Championship titles, making history for the Young Lions.
