Noni Madueke England U21s GFXGetty/GOAL

England U21s player ratings vs Czech Republic: Noni Madueke thrills before Jacob Ramsey and Emile Smith Rowe secure victory in Euros opener

England Under-21s made the perfect start to the European Championship as Jacob Ramsey's goal early in the second half proved to be the difference in their 2-0 win over the Czech Republic in their tournament opener.

Lee Carsley's side dominated possession from the off, and Chelsea winger Noni Madueke should have opened the scoring before half-time, the closest of his three efforts clipping the crossbar on its way over. The Young Lions were, though, indebted to goalkeeper James Trafford, as the Manchester City shot-stopper made two fine saves to deny Vasil Kusej before the break, while the Czech forward also fired wide when well placed.

England eventually took the lead two minutes after half-time, as Aston Villa youngster Ramsey broke from midfield, traded a one-two with Anthony Gordon and slotted a fine finish into the bottom corner. And though England had a couple of scares, the win was thoroughly well deserved given their dominance, though they had to wait until stoppage-time to seal it, as Cameron Archer squared for fellow substitute Emile Smith Rowe to tap into an empty net.

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