Young Lions book place in quarters despite defeat | OneFootball

England U21s suffered a 2-1 defeat to Germany in their final group stage match at the European Under-21 Championship but still secured a place in the quarter-finals as group runners-up.

Germany had already booked their spot in the last eight after winning their opening two games and made a full 11 changes to their line-up. Even so, they struck early just three minutes in, when Jarell Quansah was caught out by a ball over the top, allowing Ansgar Knauff to take it down brilliantly and slot into the bottom corner.

Despite the setback, the Young Lions responded positively, but it was Germany who struck again just after the half-hour mark.

Nelson Weiper rose between Jack Hinshelwood and Charlie Cresswell to nod in a well-placed header and double their lead.

The reigning champions came out looking sharper after the break and pulled one back through Alex Scott, who tapped home from close range after some excellent wing play by Omari Hutchinson.

Galvanised by the goal, the Egnlish side pushed hard for an equaliser, with Charlie Cresswell going close after his powerful header forcing a top save from Tjark Ernst.

Germany, however, stood firm to make it three wins from three and top Group B. Despite the loss, Lee Carsley’s side go through to the quarter-finals, where they’ll face Spain on Saturday evening.

In the group’s other match, Czechia saw off Slovenia 2-0 to round out the standings.