England coach Steve Cooper felt his players’ continued positivity was the most pleasing aspect to take away from their European Under-17 Championship group stage win over Norway.
The Young Lions fell behind after eight minutes in Croatia when Johan Hove’s corner rebounded in off defender Marc Guehi at the far post.
But, quick as a flash, Rhian Brewster levelled the score, then put England in front before half-time.
Phil Foden made the points safe when he pounced two minutes from time, and Cooper was impressed.
“The first game in tournaments, whoever you are playing against, always comes with a challenge,” he said.
“Particularly for the U17s, because it’s their first experience of a major tournament, so I’m really proud in the way that they didn’t panic and reacted in the best possible way and within about 30 seconds of going behind equalised.
“Then it was about sticking to the game-plan, which was the same as it would have been if we hadn’t have equalised so quickly. I’m really pleased with the mentality of the players.”
