England Beats Costa Rica 3‑0, Gordon Shines in Warm‑Up
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- England secured a 3‑0 win over Costa Rica in their final warm‑up, with goals from Declan Rice, Anthony Gordon and Ollie Watkins.
- Anthony Gordon earned a rating of 9, delivering a penalty‑spot goal, an assist for Rice and showcasing pace that may cement his starting role.
- Jordan Pickford received a rating of 6 and is described as England’s most vital player behind Harry Kane, with his starting spot only at risk if injured.
- Jude Bellingham was rated 7, showing limited impact early but improving after moving to a false nine, and his star quality suggests he will start against Croatia.
- Declan Rice got an 8 rating, scoring his seventh international goal, creating the most chances (three) and displaying relentless intensity.
- Elliot Anderson earned an 8 rating for his ball‑recovery and simple, effective play, forming a growing partnership with Rice.
- England will open the World Cup against Croatia on June 17 in Arlington, Texas, after the tournament’s kickoff on June 11.
Why it matters: Thomas Tuchel now has fresh data to lock in his XI for the Croatia opener, with Gordon’s standout 9 rating likely earning him a starting berth, while Pickford’s solid but unremarkable 6 rating leaves his spot safe but not decisive. The ratings also highlight Bellingham’s need for a more defined role, a tactical issue Tuchel must resolve before the tournament.
