England U17 conclude their UEFA EURO 2026 Round 2 qualifying campaign today with a final fixture against Estonia, scheduled for 1pm. After a commanding opening win over the Faroe Islands (3-0), the Young Lions were beaten by Israel and now find themselves in a must-win situation, while also needing Israel to drop points, if they are to finish top of the group and secure promotion to League A.
Despite a promising start to the tournament, the 3-1 defeat to Israel has left Liam Bramley’s side with their backs against the wall heading into this decisive encounter. However, there were still positives to take from that second outing. Ryan Kavuma-McQueen, who had already netted a brace against the Faroe Islands, was on the scoresheet again and continues to stand out as England’s main attacking threat. Lively on the wing, he consistently caused problems for the opposition defence. Alongside him, players such as JJ Gabriel looked to inject creativity between the lines, while Karim Cassim maintained his important role in dictating play from midfield. Despite controlling large spells of the game and creating several clear-cut chances, the Young Lions were ultimately punished for defensive lapses and a lack of clinical edge in front of goal. Against Estonia, they will need to be sharper in both boxes while maintaining the positive attacking intent shown in their previous matches.
With only the group winners earning promotion, this final fixture could still see England return to League A, provided they secure victory and Israel fail to beat the Faroe Islands.
England U17 starting XI to face Estonia :
- Ben Vickery (Manchester City)
- Oliver Wilkinson (Ipswich Town)
- Jacob Howard (Leeds United)
- Jacob Wain (Manchester City)
- Jacob Watson (Manchester United)
- Karim Cassim (Manchester City)
- Max Little (Southampton)
- Oliver Boast (Tottenham Hotspur)
- Ajay Tavares (Barcelona)
- Teddie Lamb (Manchester City)
- Harvey Higgins (Blackburn Rovers)
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