England tops Nations League group with win over Greece

Saturday, 16 November 2024 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

England will return to the top tier of the Uefa Nations League with victory over the Republic of Ireland at Wembley on Sunday after overcoming Greece in impressive style in Athens.

Lee Carsley’s side gained revenge for the debacle of a defeat to Greece at Wembley in October, and Thursday’s win was even more satisfying for the interim manager after his squad was decimated by withdrawals.

The emphatic margin of victory ensured England have a better head-to-head record against Greece after their 2-1 loss at Wembley, leaving the Three Lions’ fate in their own hands.

Ollie Watkins justified his selection ahead of Captain Harry Kane when he put England ahead after only seven minutes, turning in Noni Madueke’s cross after the Chelsea winger’s fine run.

England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford excelled in the rare moments of Greek pressure and the three points were secured in style late on.

The second goal had a hint of fortune when Jude Bellingham’s shot hit a post and ricocheted into the net off Greece keeper Odysseas Vlachodimos after 77 minutes.

However, the third goal, six minutes later, was a flash of individual brilliance from Liverpool’s Curtis Jones, who marked his debut by scoring with a stunning flicked finish from Morgan Gibbs-White’s cross.

After the match the FA released a statement saying it was aware that some England fans had a difficult experience outside the ground and are obtaining more information on what happened.