A frustrating day for Harry Kane and the England U21 squad. Joao Mario’s strike in the 56th minute was the winner as England slumped to defeat in their U21 opener. England was without Saido Berahino, ruled out of the entire tournament with a knee injury and John Stones in central defense. Despite that there was plenty of firepower available in the form of Kane and Jesse Lingard. On the bench Danny Ings, along with Kane, one of last season’s PL breakout stars. However, England failed to score for the first time in the U21 since June 2013, a stretch of 18 matches. Arsenal’s RB Carl Jenkinson also started the match with Calum Chambers amongst the subs.
Portugal were boosted by the Sporting Lisbon contingent, 5 of them in the starting line up.
England’s rivals in their group Sweden began their campaign with a 2-1 win over Italy.
BBC Match report in full >>