Striker Divin Mubama delivered an outstanding performance, scoring twice as England secured a commanding 4-0 victory against Slovakia in the European Under-21 Championships qualifying match held on March 28, 2024. This win marks England’s fifth consecutive victory, all with clean sheets, positioning them at the top of their qualifying group with a two-point lead and a match in hand.
Mubama, currently on loan at Stoke City, has been in remarkable form, netting five goals in five appearances for the national team since his debut in August. Including club matches, he has scored six times in his last five outings. The match in Slovakia saw Fulham’s Josh King also find the net, marking his first goal at this level shortly after coming on as a substitute.
The first goal was set up by Chelsea’s Jamie Gittens, whose precise cross found Tyrique George. George’s hook back from the byline allowed Mubama to nod in from close range in the 18th minute. Despite England’s early lead, Slovakia had chances to equalize, with Matej Riznic and Timotej Hranica coming close before halftime.
After the break, Slovakia’s goalkeeper Adam Hrdina made a crucial save, tipping a shot from Sydie Peck onto the post. Gittens continued to impress with a brilliant run, but Mubama’s follow-up was ruled offside. England doubled their lead when Peck lifted a ball over the Slovakia defense, and Ethan Nwaneri expertly lobbed the advancing goalkeeper from just outside the penalty area.
The match’s momentum shifted decisively in the 73rd minute when Brooke Norton-Cuffey made a driving run, allowing Rico Lewis to square the ball for King to sweep home with a first-time finish. Three minutes from full-time, King turned provider once again, stealing possession and setting up Mubama, who clipped the ball home to secure his brace.
Stoke City also featured Ashley Phillips, who came on as a substitute in the 78th minute, while Tommy Simkin remained on the bench. With this impressive performance, Mubama and Phillips return to Stoke, preparing for an away match against Leicester City on March 30, 2024. Simkin, currently on loan at Leyton Orient, is set to face Blackpool in a home fixture.
As Stoke City fans eagerly anticipate the return of their players, the club continues to strengthen its squad with keen loan signings. The latest triumph for the England Under-21 team showcases the potential and talent within their ranks, promising an exciting remainder of the qualifying campaign.
