England's U21 squad faced Germany in their final group stage match of the 2025 UEFA European Under-21 Championship on Wednesday, June 18th, succumbing to a 2-1 defeat against a much-changed German side. Despite the loss, the Young Lions had already secured their place in the quarter-finals, finishing second in Group B.
Germany, having already qualified, fielded an entirely new starting XI, but this didn't disrupt their rhythm. They took an early lead in the 3rd minute when Ansgar Knauff capitalized on a floated ball from Lukas Ullrich, firing past James Beadle. England almost responded immediately, but Tim Oermann intercepted Ethan Nwaneri's cross before Jarell Quansah could capitalize. Omari Hutchinson's shot was then deflected into the hands of German goalkeeper Tjark Ernst.
Germany doubled their advantage in the 32nd minute. Knauff's cross found Nelson Weiper, who headed home, leaving the England defense wanting. Harvey Elliott tried to reduce the deficit before halftime, but his shot went wide.
England manager Lee Carsley made a triple substitution at halftime, bringing on Jay Stansfield, James McAtee, and Brooke Norton-Cuffy. Norton-Cuffy made an immediate impact with a dangerous cross, but no one was there to tap it in. Further changes saw Tyler Morton and Tom Fellows enter the game, adding energy to the side.
England finally found a breakthrough in the 76th minute when Alex Scott scored after a good work from Hutchinson. Charlie Cresswell almost completed the comeback, but Ernst saved his header. Despite a late push, England couldn't find an equalizer, and the game ended 2-1.
Even with the defeat, England's spot in the quarter-finals was assured due to other results in the group. They will now face Spain in the quarter-finals on Saturday. Germany, with their victory, secured the top spot in Group B and will face Italy in their quarter-final match.
Throughout the match, Germany showcased technical superiority and clinical finishing. England, despite moments of intensity, struggled to create clear-cut chances and lacked precision in the final third. The result highlights areas for Carsley to address before the crucial quarter-final clash.
