Gordon and Kane secure England's first Nations League win over Czech Republic
Anthony Gordon starred and Harry Kane scored as England beat the 10-man Czech Republic 2-0 for their first Nations League victory, with Thomas Tuchel's side earning mixed player ratings.
England claimed their first Nations League win by defeating the Czech Republic 2-0, with Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane providing the goals. Gordon was England's standout performer, rated 8, posing a constant threat in behind and delivering a dangerous first-half cross before opening the scoring. Kane, who dropped deep in search of the ball, added the second with a good finish inside the area.
Trent Alexander-Arnold started his first England game in nearly two years and marked it with a fine ball for the opener, earning a 7. Left-back Lewis Hall also received a 7 for combining well with Gordon and threatening going forward, though he should have scored in the second half. Elliot Anderson was praised for a mature, dominant midfield display and also rated 7.
At the back, Trevoh Chalobah endured a shaky start, losing possession and challenges, but settled to help keep a clean sheet against the 10-man Czechs. Marc Guehi delivered his usual reliable performance with important blocks. Myles Lewis-Skelly began well but was booked for a mistimed tackle and withdrawn at half-time. James Trafford made a good second-half save and impressed with his calm passing.
Morgan Rogers hit the post twice and played Bukayo Saka through early, while Saka had little of note in a cagey match where England laboured to break down a deep Czech defence before Gordon's goal. Saka and Rogers were both rated 6.
Among the substitutes, Eberechi Eze added spark to midfield after coming on at half-time. Jude Bellingham took the captain's armband and led the line, Alex Scott made his England debut, and Rio Ngumoha's first thought was to go forward. Morgan Gibbs-White also came on late. Manager Thomas Tuchel was described as pleased with Trafford's passing range but frustrated by Chalobah's early errors.
The result gave England their first points in the Nations League, with Gordon continuing to show why he is becoming so important for the Three Lions. Supporters were invited to submit their own player ratings alongside the BBC Sport assessments.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
