England have taken an early lead in their final pre-World Cup friendly thanks to a composed finish from Arsenal captain Declan Rice in the tenth minute.
The Three Lions are facing Costa Rica at the Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando, Florida, as they look to sharpen their tactical preparations before the tournament begins.
Rice met a perfectly weighted cutback from Anthony Gordon to slot the ball first-time with his left foot, driving it right across the goalkeeper and into the net.
The goal was his seventh for England, continuing a rich vein of form that has made him one of the most influential midfielders in international football.
Gordon, who recently completed a high-profile move to Barcelona from Newcastle, was the architect of the opener with a breathtaking run down the left flank.
The former Newcastle winger showed blistering pace and sharp skill to glide past his Costa Rican marker before cutting the ball back into the penalty box.
Rice arrived at exactly the right moment to finish the chance in style, demonstrating the instincts and composure that have defined his game at the highest level.
The goal reflects the outstanding form Rice carried throughout Arsenal’s Premier League-winning 2025/26 campaign, where he was a driving force in the title triumph.
Despite the heartbreak of a Champions League final defeat to PSG just weeks ago, Rice looks fully refreshed, sharp, and ready to lead England deep into the World Cup.
England will be eager to build momentum from this result before their opening group game against Croatia on June 17th, where the stakes rise considerably.
A confident performance against Costa Rica would send a clear message to their World Cup rivals that this England side mean business heading into the tournament.
Rice’s continued excellence, combined with the creative spark that Gordon brings, gives England genuine reason for optimism as the grand stage draws closer.
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