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Four things we learned from England’s final World Cup warm-up against Costa Rica
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- Four things we learned from England’s final World Cup warm-up against Costa Rica
Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images
England have beaten Costa Rica 3-0 in their final warm-up game before the 2026 World Cup.
The Three Lions underwhelmed in their first pre-tournament friendly against New Zealand last weekend.
Thomas Tuchel's side delivered a much better performance on Wednesday, although they may have expected more goals.
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Here are four things we learned from England's victory over Costa Rica , with implications for Anthony Gordon and Elliot Anderson .
Photo by Eddie Keogh – The FA/The FA via Getty Images
England physically ready for World Cup challenge
Above all else, England needed to build match fitness and acclimatise to the difficult conditions in the United States.
It was almost 30 degrees Celsius in Orlando, yet England's starting XI appeared to be untroubled by the heat.
Costa Rica also provided a stern physical test, committing more than 20 fouls and receiving four yellow cards.
It is worth remembering that Costa Rica are not on the same level as Croatia , but England should be ready for the challenge.
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Anthony Gordon earns starting spot over Marcus Rashford
Anthony Gordon and Marcus Rashford are both vying to become England's first-choice left winger at the World Cup.
Gordon took his chance with both hands against Costa Rica, assisting Declan Rice's opener before converting a penalty.
The Barcelona winger was also brought down for another penalty decision that the VAR later overturned.
He was arguably the best player on the pitch in Orlando and will feel hard done by if he does not start against Croatia.
Declan Rice and Elliott Anderson form world-class midfield
Declan Rice and Elliott Anderson were always likely to be England's starting midfield duo at the World Cup.
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However, in-form Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo offers healthy competition for places.
Unfortunately for Mainoo, Anderson must have nailed down his place in the starting XI with his latest performance.
The Manchester City transfer target already looks assured at the international level and could be a breakout star at this tournament.
He also looks comfortable next to Rice, who can carry the ball forward, knowing Anderson is sweeping up behind him.
Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images
England need Bukayo Saka back to his best
Thomas Tuchel clearly rates Noni Madueke highly, selecting him ahead of both Jarrod Bowen and Cole Palmer .
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And the Arsenal winger always looks lively in an England shirt, weaving his way in and out of opposition defenders.
However, Madueke's lack of end product, whether it is shooting or passing, should be a concern for England fans.
Bukayo Saka came on in the second half, but he is nursing an Achilles injury and is a long way from being fully fit.
The Costa Rica game was further proof that England will need Saka to start and to perform at his best in the knockout rounds.
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