England's Under-21 side pulled off a dramatic extra-time victory over Germany to retain their European Championship crown, sealing back-to-back titles for the first time
in over four decades.
Super-sub Jonathan Rowe emerged as the hero in Bratislava, nodding home the decisive goal just two minutes after coming on. His 92nd-minute header from Tyler Morton's cross clinched the Euro 2025 title, following England’s triumph in 2023 — their first in 39 years.
The Young Lions flew out of the blocks, with Harvey Elliott netting his fifth goal of the tournament after just five minutes. Omari Hutchinson doubled the lead midway through the first half with a sharp low strike. England looked poised to run away with it, with chances for Hutchinson, Elliott, and James McAtee forcing saves from Noah Atubolu, and Jay Stansfield narrowly missing a tap-in.
But Germany struck back just before the break, with Nelson Weiper rising to head in a crucial goal in stoppage time. Paul Nebel then curled in a superb equaliser on the hour mark, shifting momentum to the Germans.
England regained control late on, but Nebel nearly completed his brace in the dying moments, rattling the crossbar. Just when the match seemed destined for penalties, Rowe rose to the occasion. Yet, there was one final scare, as Merlin Rohl’s effort also cannoned off the bar deep into stoppage time.
Carsley’s future in focus
Lee Carsley, who signed a fresh two-year deal earlier this month, has now matched Dave Sexton’s feat from the 1980s with consecutive U21 European titles. He’s done so with a reshuffled squad, missing key players like Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens, Adam Wharton, Jobe Bellingham, Taylor Harwood-Bellis, and Jarrad Branthwaite.
The 51-year-old former Everton and Coventry midfielder will no doubt attract interest from senior clubs — and possibly even as a successor to Thomas Tuchel.
Standout performers
Harvey Elliott impressed in the first half, while James McAtee earned the man of the match award with a high-energy display. Midfielders Alex Scott and Elliott Anderson dominated early proceedings, though Scott’s injury before half-time affected England’s midfield control.
Germany’s main threat, Nick Woltemade — the tournament’s top scorer — was kept unusually quiet, failing to register a single shot.
Key stats
Germany swung in a staggering 44 crosses, aiming to exploit Woltemade’s aerial threat, but only five found their target, with one resulting in a goal. In contrast, England made 14 crosses and converted four into successful chances — showcasing their efficiency and defensive discipline, led by Charlie Cresswell and Jarell Quansah. Photo by Normanvogel, Wikimedia commons.