with a dramatic 3-2 victory over rivals Germany in a pulsating final last night. Played in front of a packed stadium in Kraków, Poland, the match had everything — stunning goals, high drama, and a heroic extra-time winner.
The Young Lions started strong, with opening the scoring in the fifth minute after a slick attacking move. The Liverpool star showcased his class with a composed finish, taking his tournament tally to five goals and overtaking Alan Shearer in England’s U21 all-time scorers list.
Just 20 minutes later, doubled the lead with a curling effort that left the German goalkeeper rooted. England looked in total control until the momentum shifted just before half-time.
Germany pulled one back in stoppage time of the first half, with reacting quickest inside the box to beat England keeper James Trafford. The second half saw Germany dominate possession, and they were rewarded in the 61st minute when curled in a fine equaliser to make it 2-2.
The match headed into extra time with both sides pushing for a winner. Germany hit the post late in the second half, but it would be England who found the decisive goal.
Just two minutes into extra time, substitute —on the pitch for less than five minutes—rose highest to meet a corner and head England into the lead. The Norwich City winger’s first goal for the U21s proved to be the match-winner and etched his name into English football history.
England held on for the remaining 28 minutes, despite late pressure from Germany, to lift their and become the first team to retain the trophy since Spain in 2013.
This triumph confirms England’s status as a powerhouse in youth football. Under manager Lee Carsley, the U21 squad has produced talents ready for senior international duty. The likes of Elliott, Hutchinson, and Rowe are now being tipped for inclusion in Gareth Southgate’s senior England squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
England 3-2 Germany (AET)
| Statistic | England U21 | Germany U21 |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 47% | 53% |
| Shots on Target | 6 | 5 |
| Corners | 5 | 6 |
| Fouls Committed | 12 | 14 |
| Yellow Cards | 3 | 2 |
With this victory, England U21s have solidified their position as Europe’s best young team. The future looks bright for the senior national squad, with a conveyor belt of talented, tournament-tested players ready to make the step up.
the latest updates on England’s U21 stars and the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
