The UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2025 is underway, and England U21 began their title defense against Czech Republic U21 on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at MOL Arena in Dunajská Streda, Slovakia.

England enters the tournament as the defending champions, having won the title in 2023. They are aiming to be the first team to win back-to-back U21 EURO titles since Spain in 2011 and 2013. Drawn into Group B, alongside Germany, Slovenia, and the Czech Republic, the Young Lions are considered favorites to progress to the quarter-finals.

The Three Lions have a strong squad, including players with Premier League experience. James McAtee of Manchester City will captain the side. Other notable players include Harvey Elliott and Omari Hutchinson. Jobe Bellingham was initially named to the squad, but will be representing Borussia Dortmund at the FIFA Club World Cup. Liam Delap is also absent.

Czechia U21, coached by Jan Suchoparek, are looking to advance from the group stage, a feat they haven't achieved since 2011. They qualified by defeating Belgium in a playoff. Midfielder Adam Karabec is participating in his third consecutive tournament. Key players include Krystof Danek, Daniel Fila, and Vaclav Sejk.

England secured a 2-0 victory over Czechia U21 in their previous encounter at the 2023 tournament. Historically, England has dominated the head-to-head record with four wins out of six games. Czechia has won once, and one game ended in a draw.

Lee Carsley, England's coach, acknowledges the potential challenges in the opening game, recognizing that the team might be "clunky" as they find their rhythm. James McAtee expressed his excitement and honor at captaining the team in his first international tournament.

The match is being broadcast on Channel 4 in the UK.