In Lee Carsley’s debut as interim England manager, Declan Rice and Jack Grealish proved to be key figures in a decisive 2-0 Nations League victory over Ireland in Dublin.
The match at the sold-out Aviva Stadium on Saturday marked a fresh chapter for both teams. Heimir Hallgrimsson was at the helm for the hosts, while England began a new era following Gareth Southgate’s departure.
England delivered a strong performance in their first match since the Euro 2024 final loss in July. Rice and Grealish, both having ties to Ireland, played pivotal roles in Carsley’s successful start as interim manager, winning the game against the nation he once represented as a player.
Carsley remained silent during “God Save the King,” in line with his pre-match stance. Rice, who previously played three matches for the Republic, scored the opening goal for England, and Grealish, formerly an Ireland under-21 player, added another in a dominant first half.
Despite the lack of a comeback from Hallgrimsson’s side, the traveling fans chanted “Two nil to the Irish boys” as England began their Nations League campaign in the second tier with a win.
The atmosphere at the Aviva Stadium was charged before the match, and England’s interim manager accidentally sat in the wrong dugout. As “God Save the King” played, some traveling fans chanted “no surrender,” which was met with loud boos from the Irish supporters before their own anthem was performed.
The action heated up quickly with Jayson Molumby missing a prime opportunity to score in the third minute. Robbie Brady’s corner was nearly converted, and Harry Kane also missed a chance shortly after.
In an engaging match, Sammie Szmodics was denied a goal, but England took the lead after 11 minutes. Trent Alexander-Arnold set up Anthony Gordon, whose shot was saved by Caoimhin Kelleher. Declan Rice then scored by sending the ball into the top right corner, prompting England fans to chant “he’s one of our own” as Rice raised his hands in celebration.
Kane almost extended England’s lead, but Kelleher made a save. The crowd’s hostility continued as England searched for another goal, which came in the 26th minute. Rice played a crucial role in the build-up, assisting Jack Grealish who scored, celebrating by punching the air.
Despite Hallgrimsson’s team struggling to regain control, the second goal dampened the hostile atmosphere. Before halftime, Kane continued to threaten, and after the break, England maintained control with minimal resistance.
Seamus Coleman’s injury forced him off the pitch, worsening Ireland’s situation. Although Szmodics and Molumby had chances, Ireland struggled to break through.
