Quick Read
- Jobe Bellingham captained England U21s to a 2-0 win over Kazakhstan in Euro 2027 qualifiers.
- Ethan Nwaneri scored the opening goal and was named Player of the Match.
- England’s young squad, led by Lee Carsley, showcased strong discipline and skill.
- New faces like Divin Mubama contributed significantly to the victory.
England Under-21s began their UEFA Euro 2027 qualifying campaign with a commanding 2-0 victory over Kazakhstan on Monday night, September 8, 2025. The match, held at the Aktobe Ortalyk Stadion, saw Arsenal midfielder Ethan Nwaneri and captain Jobe Bellingham deliver stellar performances, leading the Young Lions to a promising start.
Jobe Bellingham’s Leadership Sets the Tone
Borussia Dortmund’s Jobe Bellingham, captaining the side for the first time, showcased maturity and skill beyond his years. He scored England’s second goal in the 23rd minute with a powerful header off Tyler Dibling’s corner, sealing a dominant first-half performance for the Young Lions. Bellingham’s leadership was evident throughout the game as he directed play and supported his teammates, ensuring England maintained control.
Manager Lee Carsley introduced a reshaped squad for this campaign, retaining only two players—goalkeeper James Beadle and defender Jack Hinshelwood—from the team that won the Euro 2025 title. Bellingham’s appointment as captain underscores his growing reputation as a leader on and off the pitch. According to Now Arsenal, his performance was instrumental in England’s composed and disciplined approach to the game.
Ethan Nwaneri Stars Alongside Bellingham
Ethan Nwaneri, an 18-year-old Arsenal midfielder, opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a superb left-footed strike after latching onto a pass from debutant Divin Mubama. Nwaneri’s performance earned him the Player of the Match award, as he consistently troubled the Kazakh defense with his creativity and precision.
While Kazakhstan mounted a more spirited challenge in the second half, England’s defense, marshaled by Bellingham and Beadle, held firm. The clean sheet reflects the team’s overall discipline and effectiveness in transitioning between attack and defense.
New Faces Shine in Euro 2027 Campaign
Several new players made their debut in this match, including Chelsea’s Josh Acheampong and Stoke City’s Divin Mubama. Carsley’s decision to integrate fresh talent paid dividends, as the team displayed cohesion and adaptability. Mubama, in particular, impressed with his assist for Nwaneri’s goal, highlighting the depth of talent available to England’s U21 squad.
Speaking to Goodison News, analysts praised the team’s tactical discipline and the contributions of players like Tyler Dibling, whose delivery from set pieces created multiple scoring opportunities. The Young Lions’ performance sets a high benchmark for the rest of the qualifiers, with fans eagerly anticipating how this group of players will evolve.
Looking Ahead: Building Momentum
England’s victory over Kazakhstan positions them strongly in their qualifying group as they aim to defend their Euro U21 title. With Jobe Bellingham at the helm and a mix of experienced and emerging talents, the team looks well-equipped to navigate the challenges ahead.
As the qualifiers progress, the spotlight will remain on players like Bellingham and Nwaneri, who continue to raise expectations for England’s footballing future. Their performances reflect a blend of skill, leadership, and resilience that bodes well for the senior team in the coming years.
England’s U21s have started their Euro 2027 campaign with a statement victory, signaling their intent to remain a dominant force in European football. With Jobe Bellingham’s leadership and a wealth of young talent, the future looks bright for the Young Lions.