News Focus
- England defeated Costa Rica 3-0 in their last preparation match before the World Cup.
- Goals came from Declan Rice, Anthony Gordon and substitute Ollie Watkins in Texas.
- Manager Thomas Tuchel must now decide his best starting eleven for the Croatia match on June 17.
- Jude Bellingham showed mixed form, raising questions about his ideal role in the team.
The Three Lions have finished their friendly matches. They beat Costa Rica 3-0 in their final test before the real tournament begins. Next, they face Croatia in their opening World Cup group game.
Bad weather caused a one-hour delay to the kick-off. Heavy rain fell before the match. However, England controlled the game completely after the wait. The 3-0 scoreline did not fully show how dominant they were.
Jordan Pickford remains the clear first-choice goalkeeper. He will start against Croatia unless he suffers an injury. He is perhaps the second most important player after Harry Kane. He has been number one since the 2018 World Cup. He is now part of the leadership group. He had little work to do in this match, but he stayed focused throughout.
Kyle Walker played at right-back. He looked very classy. He passed the ball with intelligence and variety. He combined well with Noni Madueke using both short and long passes. People rarely doubt his technical skill. They only worry about his fitness. On this showing, he looks in good shape. He should start against Croatia.
Ezri Konsa completed all of his passes in the first half. He sent three balls into the final third of the pitch. It is hard to imagine him starting ahead of Marc Guehi. However, Tuchel trusts him because he is reliable. He started 34 of Aston Villa’s 38 Premier League games this season. This makes him a dependable option if the team needs to rotate. He is also dangerous from set-pieces.
John Stones needed game time. He proved he can play as the left-sided centre-back. He does not usually play there for Manchester City, but he can do it. His calmness is a huge strength. He steps out of defence with confidence. Tuchel likes his intelligence and ability on the ball. He brings reassurance to a defence with limited tournament experience.
The left-back put in an elite performance. He brings energy and links excellently with Anthony Gordon. If he can play for England like he does for his club, he will be a key player in the summer heat. He can move forward to help midfield when needed. He also knows when to stay back and defend. He is certain to start at left-back.
The young midfielder was a monster at winning back possession. He then uses the ball simply but effectively. It is no surprise that Manchester City want to sign him for over £100 million. This player has a bright future. His partnership with Rice grows stronger every game. He is always available to receive a pass. His teammates love this quality.
Declan Rice played with incredible intensity. He appears to be managing some injury and fatigue issues, but you cannot see it. He would run through a desert for England. He scored his seventh international goal. This is a good sign for Tuchel. He also created three chances for others, the most of any player.
Noni Madueke showed fancy footwork but lacked an end product. He continues to miss good chances. In the first half, he hit the post after rounding the goalkeeper. It looked easier to score. Clearly, if Bukayo Saka is fit, Madueke will sit on the bench. He did not do enough to change public opinion. However, his direct running is still useful.
Tuchel wants his team to find better rhythm and fluidity. Bellingham must lead this. He was quiet in the first half when England attacked mainly from wide areas. He improved in the second half when he moved to a false nine position. He exploited space better there. Tuchel needs to find a system that puts Bellingham at the centre of the play. He should not operate alone. His star quality probably means he will start against Croatia.
Anthony Gordon played with pace and energy. He linked well with Kane. He provided the assist for Rice’s goal. He then scored himself from the penalty spot. Many people want Marcus Rashford to start on the left wing. This is understandable. However, Gordon might have won the shirt himself. His courage in one-on-one situations can help England attack better. After the match, he spoke about loving the pressure of big games.
Harry Kane remains the quarterback of the team. He is England’s most influential player even when he does not score. He brings others into play so well. His teammates must find ways to give him the ball. He is in the best scoring form of his career. The captain has reached the top of the game. Hopefully, he can show it this summer.
Eberechi Eze was the best substitute in the second half. The Crystal Palace midfielder won the penalty for Gordon’s goal. He then played a perfect pass for Morgan Rogers, who missed the chance. It was a shame Rogers could not finish. Saka looked lively when he came on. Djed Spence also worked hard. Rashford showed his skill in tight spaces. Ollie Watkins proved his poaching instinct with his goal.
The World Cup officially begins on Thursday, 11 June, when Mexico play South Africa. England start their campaign against Croatia on Wednesday, 17 June, in Arlington, Texas. The kick-off is at 9pm UK time.