England claimed their first victory of the Uefa Nations League campaign with a controlled win over 10-man Czech Republic in Prague, as Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane delivered the goals for Thomas Tuchel’s side.

After opening their campaign with a home defeat by Spain, England needed a response and their task became easier when Czech Republic were reduced to 10 men midway through the first half.

Pavel Sulc, the hosts’ biggest attacking threat, was sent off after 25 minutes following a high challenge on Elliot Anderson. England took control from that point but had to wait until after half-time to turn their dominance into goals.

Morgan Rogers came closest before the break when he struck the woodwork, but England found the breakthrough two minutes into the second half.

Trent Alexander-Arnold, making his first England start since October 2024, produced a superb delivery that Gordon headed home. Gordon, who had been England’s standout performer in the defeat by Spain at Wembley, again caused problems and combined effectively with former Newcastle United team-mate Lewis Hall on the left.

England continued to push for a second, with Czech captain Ladislav Krejci turning a Hall cross against his own post.

The result was finally put beyond doubt in the 69th minute. Czech Republic failed to clear their lines and captain Kane punished the mistake with a powerful left-footed finish. It was his 87th goal in 123 appearances for England.

The match also provided Alexander-Arnold and Hall with an important opportunity to make their case to Tuchel.

Alexander-Arnold had struggled to establish himself under the England head coach, while Hall was brought into the side after Manchester City defender Nico O’Reilly withdrew through injury. Both full-backs responded with impressive displays, although their performances came against opponents who offered significantly less threat following Sulc’s dismissal.

Alexander-Arnold’s quality was highlighted by his outstanding assist for Gordon, while Hall was composed defensively and offered support going forward.

Tuchel was also able to hand Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott his England debut. Scott almost marked the occasion with a goal, sending an effort narrowly wide following a driving run.

England’s patient performance ultimately produced a deserved victory and their first Nations League points of the campaign. They will next travel to Rijeka, where they face Croatia on Saturday.