Czech Republic edge past Netherlands

The Czech Republic boosted their chances of reaching the UEFA European Under-19 Championship finals with a 1-0 victory against the Netherlands.

Tomáš Přikryl scored the only goal after 16 minutes to move the hosts level on four points with Group 5 leaders Russia, after those sides drew 0-0 in their opening game of the section on Thursday. The Dutch have one point along with Israel.

The decisive effort in Lanzhot came from a long ball, Přikryl evading Stefan de Vrij and finishing. The Czech defence, well marshalled by Tomaš Jeleček, subsequently thwarted everything their opponents had to offer for the remainder of the half.

Substitute Filip Twardzik missed a close-range chance just before the hour as the home side threatened to move further ahead after the interval. They were almost forced to share the spoils but Ouasim Bouy placed his header just off target deep into added time.

The Czech Republic meet Israel on Tuesday while Russia take on the Netherlands. Only the team finishing top of the section will be assured of a place in the finals in Romania, which start on 20 July.