All eyes are focused on Jude Bellingham as England prepares for a crucial UEFA Nations League fixture. The central question surrounding Tuesday’s Matchday 2 encounter in Prague is whether the midfield star will start as England seeks to bounce back from a stunning opening defeat. Meanwhile, Czechia enters the match winless after succumbing to Croatia, making this a high-stakes clash for both sides.
England crashed to a 3-2 loss against Spain at Wembley after leading 2-1 at halftime thanks to goals from Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane. Czechia endured a tighter 2-1 defeat to Croatia, leaving both nations pointless after the opening round.
Czechia started their Nations League campaign with a 2-1 home loss to Croatia, as Luka Modrić struck first before Adam Karabec leveled. Marco Pasalic later restored Croatia’s lead, placing Santi Denia’s squad under significant pressure heading into the England match. Denia has taken charge following the departure of Miroslav Koubek.
England have dominated the historical fixture, losing only one of nine previous meetings with six wins and two draws. That sole defeat occurred in Prague during Euro 2020 qualifying in October 2019, when the home side rallied from an early Kane penalty to triumph 2-1.
The most recent encounter finished differently, with England claiming a 1-0 victory at Wembley during Euro 2020. Tuesday’s fixture will serve as another important benchmark for both teams as they look to progress in the Nations League.
Bellingham’s Availability for Czechia Clash
Bellingham is expected to keep his starting spot after delivering a performance that solidified his position in Tuchel’s attacking midfield setup. Anthony Gordon also turned in a strong display against Spain, while Bukayo Saka and Harry Kane are anticipated to hold their respective wide and central roles.
The anticipated formation is a 4-2-3-1, with Bellingham stationed behind Kane and flanked by the wide attackers. England’s attacking output against Spain warranted selection continuity, despite conceding twice in the second half.
Bellingham scores in extra time
Bellingham’s presence is particularly crucial given that England has already lost several key players from the squad. Cole Palmer, Declan Rice, Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo and Tino Livramento all departed before the international window due to injury or workload management.
Czechia vs England: Projected Lineups
Czechia projected XI (4-2-3-1): Hornicek; Coufal, Hranac, Chaloupek, Slama; Sadilek, Cerv; Ambros, Sulc, Radosta; Hlozek.
England projected XI (4-2-3-1): Trafford; Alexander-Arnold, Guehi, Branthwaite, Hall; Anderson, Scott; Saka, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane.