Curtis Jones Dominates as England U21s Secure Quarter-Final Place
England U21s have become the first team to book their place in the quarter-finals of this summer’s U21 Euro tournament after a 2-0 victory over Israel on Sunday. Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones was in dominant form in an interesting midfield role, with the 22-year-old excelling in a mature, disciplined display.
Jones’ Performance
Jones had 136 touches of the ball – comfortably more than any other player – and completed 120 of his 124 attempted passes for a rate of 97 percent. He showed the discipline and flexibility to operate in a different position to that which he holds at his club, and also demonstrated his creativity with a sumptuous ball to split the defence. Most impressive was his ability to retain possession and move play along quickly and efficiently, which gave England the platform to take the three points.
Goalscorers
The goals came from Anthony Gordon and Emile Smith Rowe, with Harvey Elliott coming off the bench again as he did in the opening victory over the Czech Republic. Elliott replaced Smith Rowe with 20 minutes of normal time remaining, taking up an advanced position in midfield just ahead of Jones.
Group C Standings
England still have to play Germany on Wednesday evening before they can turn their focus to the quarter-finals, though they will already advance as winners of Group C. The Czech Republic – including Liverpool goalkeeper Vitezslav Jaros – sealed a 2-1 win over Germany elsewhere in Group C, meaning they can book their place in the quarter-finals with a positive result over Israel.
Conclusion
England are now guaranteed to progress to the knockout stages of this summer’s tournament after a 2-0 victory over Israel, with Curtis Jones playing a key role in midfield. With the Czech Republic also sealing a 2-1 win over Germany, both teams are now in a strong position to make it through to the quarter-finals.