Gordon makes his point as England breeze past Costa Rica in final World Cup warm-up
England defeated Costa Rica in their final warm-up match before the 2026 World Cup. Manager Thomas Tuchel utilized the game to test his starting lineup, with goals coming from Declan Rice, Anthony Gordon, and Ollie Watkins.
Why it matters
This match provides critical insight into England's tactical setup and player selection for the upcoming World Cup tournament.
Anthony Gordon (left) and Declan Rice were both on target in England’s final World Cup warm-up game. Photograph: John Raoux/AP View image in fullscreen Anthony Gordon (left) and Declan Rice were both on target in England’s final World Cup warm-up game. Photograph: John Raoux/AP Friendlies Gordon makes his point as England breeze past Costa Rica in final World Cup warm-up David Hytner at the Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando Wed 10 Jun 2026 19.13 EDT Last modified on Thu 11 Jun 2026 02.22 EDT Share Prefer the Guardian on Google It was the day when Thomas Tuchel showed his hand for England’s World Cup opener against Croatia in Dallas next Wednesday and his players hinted at what can happen when they play with intensity and slick connections.
The article is a standard sports match report focusing on team performance and tactical decisions without political or ideological framing.
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