England cruise past Costa Rica 3–0 in final warm-up match before World Cup
The second half saw further drama when a handball incident led to a penalty in the 68th minute, which Gordon converted confidently to double England’s lead at 2–0.
KATHMANDU: England national football team delivered a dominant 3–0 victory over Costa Rica national football team in their final friendly ahead of the FIFA World Cup, showcasing strong form and balance across the pitch.
The match, played at Inter&Co Stadium, saw England make an aggressive start and take an early lead in the 9th minute through Declan Rice, who finished calmly after a well-worked move involving Anthony Gordon.
England controlled possession throughout the first half, with Jude Bellingham orchestrating play from midfield and creating several key chances, including a near miss for Noni Madueke that struck the post.
Costa Rica showed brief threat on the counterattack but struggled to break through England’s organized defense.
The second half saw further drama when a handball incident led to a penalty in the 68th minute, which Gordon converted confidently to double England’s lead at 2–0.
Late substitute Ollie Watkins sealed the win in the 87th minute with a close-range header, completing a convincing performance.
England’s all-round display highlighted tactical balance under pressure, giving coach Thomas Tuchel encouraging signs ahead of their World Cup opener against Croatia.
