The 2023 UEFA European Under-21 Championship final, held on July 8, 2023, at the Adjarabet Arena in Batumi, Georgia, saw England narrowly defeat Spain 1-0. The match was intensely competitive, with both sides showcasing strong defensive and offensive skills. The game's only goal came in first-half stoppage time, when Curtis Jones found the back of the net, giving England a crucial lead.
Spain pressed hard for an equalizer in the second half, creating several opportunities. However, England's defense, anchored by goalkeeper James Trafford, held firm. Trafford's standout moment came in stoppage time when he saved a penalty, preserving England's lead and securing their third Under-21 Championship title, their first since 1984. The victory highlighted the depth of talent in England's youth ranks and their potential for future success at senior levels.
Team
GK - James Trafford
RB - James Garner
CB - Taylor Harwood-Bellis
CB - Levi Colwill
LB - Max Aarons
CM - Angel Gomes
CM - Curtis Jones
RM - Cole Palmer
LM - Emile Smith Rowe
FW - Morgan Gibbs-White
FW - Anthony Gordon
Full Squad
Goalkeepers:
Josh Griffiths
Carl Rushworth
James Trafford
Defenders:
Max Aarons
Jarrad Branthwaite
Levi Colwill
Charlie Cresswell
Taylor Harwood-Bellis (Captain)
Ben Johnson
Luke Thomas
Midfielders:
Tommy Doyle
Harvey Elliott
James Garner
Angel Gomes
Curtis Jones
Jacob Ramsey
Oliver Skipp
Forwards:
Cameron Archer
Morgan Gibbs-White
Anthony Gordon
Noni Madueke
Cole Palmer
Emile Smith Rowe