Czech Republic U21 vs England U21 Prediction: 22/1 Betting Tip & Team News

England Under-21s get the defence of their European Championships crown up and running with an opening Group B test against Czech Republic Under-21s on Thursday.

Two years ago, the Young Lions triumphed in Georgia and Romania and Lee Carsley’s talented side are fancied to launch another trophy bid this time around.

The clash, which takes place at the MOL Arena in Dunajska Streda, Slovakia, kicks off at 8pm on Thursday 12th June and will be screened live in the UK by Channel 4.

Czech Republic U21 vs England U21 Tips

England look to have more quality in their squad than Thursday’s opponents as well-known Premier League players like Tino Livramento, Elliot Anderson, Archie Gray, and Harvey Elliott are all part of Lee Carsley’s plans for the summer.

The Young Lions should start the tournament with a win - replicating what they managed two years ago en route to glory in the U21 Euros when they began their group campaign with a 2-0 win over the Czechs.

However, this time Jan Suchoparek’s side can at least get on the scoresheet in defeat.

The Czechs have failed to win any of their last three games, losing to Norway and drawing with Spain and Belgium, but they have scored in five of their last six outings.

England's youngsters have won eight of their last 12 matches, losing just once in that spell - to France 5-3 in March - and they look well capable of starting the competition strongly.

James McAtee has just enjoyed a breakthrough season with Manchester City, the attacking midfielder netting seven goals in all competitions for Pep Guardiola’s side.

He is likely to be one of the key men for England this summer if Carsley’s side are to go far in the tournament and he can inspire them from the outset.

The 22-year-old has a good goalscoring record internationally, too, banging in seven goals for the Young Lions from just 18 Under-21 appearances.

Czech Republic U21 vs England U21 Bet Boosts