Anthony Gordon strengthened his case for a starting place at the 2026 World Cup as England cruised to a 3-0 victory over Costa Rica in their final warm-up match.
Thomas Tuchel’s side completed their preparations on Wednesday, with goals from Declan Rice, Gordon and Ollie Watkins securing a comfortable win in Florida.
England made a fast start and took the lead after just nine minutes. Gordon was heavily involved, as he picked out Rice, whose effort took a deflection on its way into the net.
The Newcastle United winger continued to cause problems throughout the first half and thought he had won a penalty shortly before the break – however, after a VAR review, the decision was overturned.
Gordon gets his goal
Gordon eventually got his goal in the second half.
England were awarded a penalty after a handball in the Costa Rica area, and the winger stepped up confidently to double the Three Lions’ advantage.
Watkins then completed the scoring late on with a header as England wrapped up an encouraging evening ahead of their World Cup opener.
England dominated possession and created several chances, with Jude Bellingham again producing an influential display in the No 10 role.
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Tuchel pleased with England’s preparation
After the match, Tuchel expressed his satisfaction with how his squad have prepared for the tournament.
“We deserved to win, we should have scored more, created a lot. The attitude, intensity and energy was on a very high level. Everyone did well. A very good team performance,” the German said to ITV.
“We wanted to push to the next level and we got it – the fans in the stadium could feel it. Counter pressing was good, defending, togetherness – everything was on a high level.
“Tonight makes my mind very calm as we are absolutely going the right way and I’m very proud of the team spirit.
“The guys who came in were influential and the guys on the bench were pushing. It’s exactly what we wanted.
Substitutes lauded
“We saw very good substitutes who were very disappointed to not start.
“They came on and played with the same intensity and quality against a tired opponent – well done to everyone.”
England begin their World Cup campaign with a Group L clash with Croatia (9pm) on Wednesday, June 17.
The Three Lions then face Ghana (9pm) on Tuesday, June 23 before wrapping up the group stage with a showdown against Panama (10pm) on Saturday, June 27.
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Liam McLaughlan 
SportJustSport writers 
Michael Davey