A first-half header by Raheem Sterling was enough to give England a win over the Czech Republic, thus enabling them to finish top of the group. Meanwhile, 2018 World Cup finalists Croatia sneaked into the knockout stages with a win over Scotland.
Raheem Sterling nearly gave England the lead in the second minute of the match: the Manchester City winger raced to a lofted through pass by Luke Shaw before lifting the ball over the goalkeeper Tomas Vaclik.
But his shot hit the far post, and the ball was subsequently cleared by the Czech defence. England took the lead in the 12th minute of the match with Jack Grealish – one of the players brought in for this match – playing a key role. His cross into the danger zone was headed in by Sterling, who remains the sole goalscorer for Gareth Southgate’s side in the tournament.
In the other Group D game, 2018 World Cup finalists Croatia took on Scotland, the latter spirited by their draw against England. The first half ended 1-1, with Callum McGregor canceling out Nikola Vlasic’s early goal. However, the Croats’ superiority told in the second half when Luka Modric gave them the lead. The Ballon d’Or winner used the outside of his boot to nestle the ball into the top corner.
Ivan Perisic put the game beyond Scotland’s reach in the 77th minute by flicking a Modric corner into the net. Croatia’s win, coupled with the Czech Republic’s loss to England, ensured the second position for the former. They will face the runner-up of Group E in the Round-of-16. Meanwhile, England are expected to be handed a nightmare draw in the knockouts. The Three Lions are at risk of facing France, Portugal, or Germany in the next round.
