England U19 continue their Elite Round qualifying campaign for the UEFA U19 EURO 2026 with a crucial second fixture against Poland. Beaten in their opener by Serbia (2-0), the Young Lions head into this match knowing they must respond to keep their qualification hopes alive in a highly competitive group that also includes Portugal.
Despite the opening defeat, Will Antwi’s side showed promising signs, particularly in attack, creating a number of chances without managing to convert them. That lack of cutting edge, combined with two goals conceded against a clinical Serbian side, leaves England in a precarious position ahead of this second outing.
In a bid to bounce back, Antwi is expected to rely on a familiar core. In midfield, Chris Rigg and Trey Nyoni should once again provide energy and technical quality, while Divine Mukasa offers a creative outlet from the bench. In attack, Jesse Derry and Rio Ngumoha remain key threats with their pace and ability to stretch defences, while Max Dowman is set to start the match among the substitutes.
Defensively, Kian Noble retains his place, while Manchester City’s Brooklyn Nfonkeu-Feuba is in line to make his debut at this level. Goalkeeper Oliver Whatmuff keeps his spot and will be looking to build on an otherwise solid individual display despite conceding twice in the opening match.
With only the group winners progressing to the finals, this clash with Poland already carries huge significance. A victory would reignite England’s campaign ahead of their final game against Portugal, whereas another setback would effectively end their hopes of qualification.
England U19 starting XI to face Poland:
- Oliver Whatmuff (Rochdale)
- Brooklyn Nfonkeu-Feuba (Manchester City)
- Ezra Mayers (West Ham United)
- Kian Noble (Manchester City)
- Samuel Amissah (Fulham)
- Trey Nyoni (Liverpool)
- Harrison Armstrong (Everton)
- Chris Rigg (Sunderland)
- Rio Ngumoha (Liverpool)
- Shumaira Mheuka (Chelsea)
- Jesse Derry (Chelsea)
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