England delivered a clinical performance in their final preparation match before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, comfortably dispatching Costa Rica 3-0 at Wembley Stadium.
Thomas Tuchel’s side looked sharp and composed, using the friendly to fine-tune their tactical setup ahead of their Group L opener against Croatia next week. The match saw a dominant England side control the tempo from the opening whistle, with goals from Declan Rice, Anthony Gordon, and a late strike from Ollie Watkins rounding off a comprehensive victory.
Match Highlights
Early Breakthrough: It didn't take long for the deadlock to break, as Declan Rice found the net in the 8th minute to settle any early nerves and set the tone for the evening.
Clinical Control: England’s intensity remained high throughout the first half, though Costa Rica’s defense held firm until a penalty was awarded and coolly converted by Anthony Gordon in the 67th minute.
Closing Strong: The Three Lions showcased their depth with a flurry of second-half substitutions. Ollie Watkins made an immediate impact, adding the third goal in the 86th minute to put the result beyond doubt.
With this win, England heads to North America on a high note, carrying much-needed momentum into the group stages. They will now turn their focus to their first official tournament fixture against Croatia on June 17.