England Under-19s prepare for Germany test in UEFA semi-finals

England Under-19s are preparing for their toughest ever test when they face European Champions Germany in the semi-finals of the 1st UEFA European Championships.

This is the first official UEFA Under-19 finals to be played as a tournament - in previous years a home and away leg knockout formula has been used - and it is the first time that England had reached the final eight teams. But England have surpassed all expectations to reach the final four of the tournament, which also carries automatic qualification for the 1st FIFA Under-19 World Championship to be played in Canada in August.

England went down 4-3 to Switzerland in their final group game at the 1st UEFA European Championship Finals, but still went through to the semi-finals. England claimed second place ahead of Norway and Switzerland, who all finished on three points, on goal difference thanks to a 3-1 victory over the Norwegians in their opening game.

"I think there was a fear factor from our girls in the Switzerland game because they were worried about not qualifying," said England Coach Mo Marley. "You have to remember that they are just young girls out there - some of them are only 16 - but it is a massive achievement to go through. I now hope we put on a better display in the semi.

The final will take place on Sunday 12th May at the Olympic Stadium, Helsingborg, at 2.00pm CET and will be shown live on Eurosport.