England U21s beaten as Republic of Ireland secure Euro 2027 play-off place

Match report as England U21s suffered a 3-1 defeat to the Republic of Ireland, who have now earned a play-off place for European Championship qualification; Lee Carsleys side have already qualified; the loss marked their only defeat of the qualifying campaign

England U21s suffered their first defeat to their Republic of Ireland counterparts after falling 3-1 in Cork, with Tommy Lonergan scoring twice for the hosts.

Lee Carsley's men had already qualified for Euro 2027 as Group D winners but Ireland were competing for a play-off place, which they successfully secured when their deserved victory at Turner's Cross clinched second place at the expense of Slovakia on head-to-head record.

It was England's only defeat of their qualifying campaign and they paid the price for their defensive frailties, even though the early signs were promising.

They took the lead in the eighth minute when Divin Mubama's shot deflected across the face of goal and fell to Tyler Dibling, who hit the target with his first touch.

Some of the energy drained from their play, however, and in the 22nd minute a defensive lapse invited Ireland in for their opener.

Source: Sky Sports