Anthony Gordon and Declan Rice were both on target as England breezed past Costa Rica in their final World Cup warm-up game. The match, held in Orlando, was delayed by an hour due to a severe thunderstorm, but England quickly took control once play began.
Tuchel's Team Selection
Manager Thomas Tuchel showed his hand for the World Cup opener against Croatia, fielding a strong lineup. Key decisions included Jude Bellingham over Morgan Rogers in the No 10 role, Anthony Gordon ahead of Marcus Rashford on the left wing, and Ezri Konsa starting in central defence over Marc Guéhi. Noni Madueke was preferred on the right wing as Bukayo Saka was not fully fit.
Early Dominance
England started with blistering intensity. Bellingham set the tone with a tackle within eight seconds, and Gordon immediately troubled Costa Rica right-back Shawn Johnson. The breakthrough came from Gordon's explosive run down the left, pulling the ball back for Rice to sweep a deflected left-footed shot into the far corner.
Despite the heat and humidity, England maintained a high tempo, barely allowing Costa Rica to cross halfway. Madueke missed a golden opportunity on 36 minutes after being sent through by Bellingham, rounding the goalkeeper but hitting the near post with the goal gaping.
Second Half Pressure
In the second half, England continued to push. Madueke curled a shot just wide after a diagonal pass from Harry Kane. Tuchel made six substitutions just after the hour, including Rogers for Kane, which briefly pushed Bellingham to central striker. A penalty was awarded when Eberechi Eze's shot hit the arm of Joseth Peraza, and Gordon converted emphatically.
Rogers missed a good chance on 76 minutes, but Watkins tapped home the rebound from Rogers' saved shot late on to seal the 3-0 victory.
Notable Performances
Elliot Anderson impressed in the No 6 role, combining sharpness and aggression on and off the ball, despite his club Nottingham Forest rejecting a mega-money bid from Manchester City. Bellingham was influential throughout, linking well with Kane and creating chances.
The win provided encouragement for Tuchel as England prepare for their World Cup opener against Croatia in Dallas next Wednesday.
