England bounced back from their chaotic 3-2 defeat to Spain with a crucial 2-0 Nations League victory over Czechia on Tuesday, with Anthony Gordon and Trent Alexander-Arnold combining to make the difference in Prague. Thomas Tuchel's side took full advantage of Pavel Sulc's first-half red card before Gordon opened the scoring after the break and Harry Kane sealed the win.
Key Highlights
- Anthony Gordon scored England's opener against Czechia from a pinpoint Trent Alexander-Arnold cross.
- Gordon has now scored in three consecutive international appearances under Thomas Tuchel.
- Harry Kane praised Gordon as England's "difference maker" following his move to Barcelona.
- Kane is closing in on Peter Shilton's 125-cap record while chasing 100 international goals.
Gordon and Alexander-Arnold Inspire England Victory
England responded strongly to their 3-2 defeat against Spain by securing a vital Nations League victory over Czechia. Tuchel's side capitalised on Pavel Sulc's first-half red card, controlling the match before eventually running out 2-0 winners.
Gordon broke the deadlock shortly after half-time, heading in an inch-perfect cross from Real Madrid defender Alexander-Arnold. The Barcelona forward continues to enjoy an impressive run of form under Tuchel, having now scored in his last three international appearances.
Kane then doubled England's advantage to secure all three points. The result also highlighted the growing influence of England's La Liga contingent, with Gordon making another decisive contribution following his high-profile €70m (£60m) summer move to Barcelona.
Kane Hails 'Difference Maker' Gordon
Kane singled out Gordon for praise, suggesting the attacker's move away from Newcastle United has helped elevate his confidence and overall game.
"I think sometimes going to a big club like that gives you more self-belief, more confidence," the former Tottenham striker said. "You feel like you belong on the biggest stage and I think he's taken that into his England performances."
The England captain was particularly impressed by Gordon's direct approach in the final third. Kane added that Gordon was "outstanding" against Spain and again proved to be the difference maker against Czechia, constantly looking to take responsibility and put England ahead.
Kane also praised Alexander-Arnold, who earned his first international call-up since June 2025 following an injury crisis.
"Trent's outstanding," Kane said. "The delivery, the passing range, the crossing but also today defensively he was outstanding. Trent just has to keep his head down, keep working hard."
Gordon's Tactical Evolution Paying Off
Gordon's strong international form comes as he continues to reshape his reputation as a footballer. The forward previously admitted feeling unfairly pigeonholed as a mere pace merchant in the Premier League, making his move to Barcelona partly an opportunity to demonstrate his tactical intelligence.
His increasingly decisive performances for England suggest the move is already helping him expand his game beyond his pace.
Meanwhile, Kane is pursuing his own piece of England history. The 87-goal forward is closing in on Peter Shilton's all-time appearance record of 125 caps, while continuing his pursuit of 100 international goals.
"I don't like to think too far ahead, but of course it's getting closer," Kane said of reaching the century mark. "You know, 100 goals for the national team would be something special without a doubt. It still feels like yesterday I just broke the record, and I was away in Italy getting that one."
England Prepare for Croatia Test
England will continue their gruelling four-match Nations League schedule with a trip to Croatia this Saturday, before returning to Wembley to face Czechia next Tuesday.
With Gordon and Alexander-Arnold taking their opportunities, Tuchel now faces a selection dilemma ahead of the upcoming double-header. The pair will hope their match-winning combination in Prague is enough to strengthen their claims for starting roles.
