England Under-21s secured their place at next summer’s European Championship with a goalless draw against Slovakia in Stoke.
Lee Carsley’s side began the match six points clear of their opponents with two qualifying fixtures still to play, meaning a point was enough to guarantee their passage to Euro 2027. England had intended to win, but Slovakia’s disciplined low block limited the hosts’ opportunities.
The Young Lions created the clearer chances, particularly in the first half. Will Lankshear twice went close with headers, first directing a delivery from Sydie Peck wide before later narrowly missing the far post after Tyrique George had supplied the cross.
Ethan Nwaneri also threatened as England pressed for the breakthrough, while Josh Acheampong tested Slovakia goalkeeper Adam Hrdina from distance. Acheampong had scored last Friday night and forced Hrdina into his first save of the match with his long-range effort.
Although England were the only team actively seeking an opening goal, they appeared increasingly comfortable with the point that would confirm qualification for a tournament they are aiming to win for a third consecutive time.
Slovakia raise their intensity
Slovakia needed victory to keep their slim hopes of automatic qualification alive and began the second half with greater attacking intent.
Hugo Pavek tested James Beadle from range, forcing the England goalkeeper to remain alert. At the other end, Samuel Amo-Ameyaw continued to pose a threat, repeatedly troubling Slovakia full-back Filip Mielke.
Amo-Ameyaw cut inside early in the second period and tried to find the top of the net, but his effort went over the crossbar.
England continued to search for a goal that would settle the contest. Archie Gray joined the attacks from distance as he looked for an opportunity to mark qualification with a goal, but Slovakia’s defence remained organised and refused to give way.
Amario Cozier-Duberry came on for George and immediately gave Pavek more problems on Slovakia’s right. The Middlesbrough winger cut inside and sent a dangerous cross into the area, but Peck could not direct it home.
Neither side could produce a decisive finish, leaving England to settle for the draw that had always been enough to send them through.
