England produced an encouraging display in Orlando as they defeated Costa Rica in their final public warm-up fixture before the World Cup. Severe weather delayed kick-off by an hour, but Thomas Tuchel’s team quickly settled into their rhythm once the match began.
The opening goal arrived early when Declan Rice capitalised on excellent work from Anthony Gordon. The winger, recently signed by Barcelona, created the opportunity before Rice’s effort took a deflection on its way into the net, giving England a deserved advantage.
Costa Rica attempted to make life difficult with committed challenges and disciplined defending, but England controlled much of the contest and consistently looked the more dangerous side.
Bellingham strengthens his case
Starting ahead of Morgan Rogers in the attacking midfield role, Jude Bellingham delivered an influential performance as he continued his push for a place in England’s World Cup opener against Croatia on 17 June in Dallas.
The Real Madrid midfielder showcased his quality throughout the evening. One of his finest moments came when he released Noni Madueke through on goal during the first half. After rounding goalkeeper Patrick Sequeira, the Arsenal forward appeared certain to score, only to see his effort strike the post.
Bellingham remained a constant threat between the lines, combining energy, creativity, and intelligent movement. His display provided another reminder of the qualities he can offer as Tuchel weighs up his starting lineup for the tournament.
Gordon and Eze help England pull away
England eventually doubled their lead after 68 minutes following another impressive contribution from Bellingham. His driving run created the opening that led to substitute Eberechi Eze getting a shot away, only for the ball to be handled inside the penalty area.
With regular spot-kick taker Harry Kane already off the pitch, Gordon stepped forward and confidently converted from the penalty spot. The goal capped a lively evening for the attacker, who had troubled defender Shawn Johnson throughout the match and played a key role in England’s attacking play.
Tuchel was also able to hand opportunities to several players eager to impress before the tournament begins, and the overall intensity of the performance suggested the squad is building momentum at the right time.
Final tune-up before Croatia test
England added a third goal three minutes from full-time when substitute Ollie Watkins reacted quickest inside the box, heading home from close range to underline the home side’s superiority.
The victory represented a significant step forward from the 1-0 success over New Zealand in Tampa, a match that had resembled little more than a training exercise. Costa Rica offered sterner resistance and provided the competitive challenge Tuchel had been seeking.
There were further positives for England, including another 63 minutes for John Stones as the defender continues his return and pushes for a place in the starting team. Attention now turns to a closed-door fixture against Miami FC, which will give players additional game time and allow Tuchel to make final tactical adjustments before the World Cup campaign gets underway against Croatia.