England got off to a successful start at the European Under-21 Championship – and France brought home the victory against Italy with a man down.
At the start, England, the last group opponent in the German selection, defeated the Czech Republic 2-0 (0-0) on Thursday evening. After a fast-paced but goalless first half in Batumi, Jacob Ramsey (47 minutes) and Emile Smith Rowe (90+4) scored the goals for the “Three Lions”.
Along with the French team, England is considered one of the top favorites for the finals in Georgia and Romania. Due to the simultaneous 1:1 (1:1) draw of the DFB team against Israel, the team of England coach Lee Carsley took over the lead in group C.
Switzerland wins against Norway
In the first match of the preliminary round group D, Switzerland prevailed 2-1 (1-1) against Norway. Emil Ceide (19′) gave the Norwegians the lead before Dan Ndoye (36′) and Kastriot Imeri (55′) turned the game around in Cluj-Napoca.
France conquers Italy
At the end of the first day of play, France won the prestige duel against Italy in Group D 2-1 (1-1). Arnaud Kalimuendo gave the French the lead in the 22nd minute, Pietro Pellegri (36th) equalized around 15 minutes later. In the 62nd minute it was Bradley Barcola who shot the “Equipe Tricolore” to victory.
Shortly before the end, France’s Loic Bade (83rd) saw the red card because of an emergency brake, but Italy was no longer able to use the majority to equalize.