Mings praises England’s resilience after Croatia clean sheet in first Euro 2020 match

The Three Lions saw out a 1-0 victory – their first win in an opening game of a European Championship – relatively untroubled to make the perfect start in Group D, with the opposition limited to just two efforts on target.

Raheem Sterling’s first major tournament goal in the 57th minute ultimately proved the difference between the two sides. Sterling’s fellow Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden also hit the post for England in the first-half.

Aston Villa defender Mings told the BBC: “It’s a dream come true to play at a major tournament for England and I loved every second of it. The team showed a lot of grit, determination and a lot of quality at times.

“It was up to us to repel their threats but equally we always have quality to trouble teams as well.

“We wanted a second but it was important as a defender and a team we wanted to be hard to beat. We were resilient and we kept a clean sheet.

“We felt composed and we felt in good shape. The back four is only as good as the players in front of it giving it protection. The players who came on gave us a new lease of life and more energy.”

Former Sheffield United striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin was a late substitute as England saw the game out comfortably, while ex-Blade Kyle Walker played the full 90 minutes in defence.

Gareth Southgate’s side will be back in action next Friday when they play Scotland at Wembley Stadium (8pm kick-off).