Lee Carsley frustrated by missed chances in England Under-21s stalemate

Lee Carsley was frustrated by missed chances after England Under-21s were held to a 0-0 draw by Slovenia in the second game of their European Championship campaign.

England could have secured their place in the knockout stage after Ethan Nwaneri and James McAtee spurned glorious opportunities and Harvey Elliott was denied by the woodwork.

The reigning champions continued to push for a second win of the tournament but Slovenia goalkeeper Martin Turk denied Jack Hinshelwood in stoppage time to keep their slim hopes of qualification alive.

Our #YoungLions move on to four points in #U21EURO Group B. 🤝

Next up: Germany on Wednesday!

— England (@England) June 15, 2025

Carsley told UEFA.com: “It was a very tough game. We definitely didn’t underestimate Slovenia, who are a good, well-organised team.

“I definitely think we had enough chances to win, though, so the frustration is that we didn’t take those opportunities.

“I expect us to be better against Germany. I think we’ll need to freshen the team up.

“It’s important to take into consideration their age and the amount they’ve played, so we’ll make sure we utilise the squad.”

England kept a clean sheet thanks to goalkeeper James Beadle, who was called into action on three occasions to stop Slovenia from taking the lead.

The England stopper said: “There are no easy games in this tournament and Slovenia have real quality.

“If you can’t win the game don’t lose it, and we move on. I’m satisfied with my personal performance, but obviously disappointed we didn’t win.”

Captain McAtee dragged wide from inside the area in the first half before Turk denied him straight after the break.

The 22-year-old is hoping England can top the group with victory over Germany.

He said: “I’m a bit annoyed at myself for the chances I missed, but the same goes for the rest of the lads.

“We’re disappointed with the result, but it’s a point and we’ve got another game coming up soon, so we’ll focus on that.

“With my first chance I thought I was offside and for the second the lads said it was a good save, but I should have finished it.

“There will be some fresh legs out there against Germany, so hopefully we can get the three points and top the group, because that’s our aim.”