England vs Costa Rica Prediction, Preview & Betting Tips 2026
England conclude their FIFA World Cup preparations with a friendly clash against Costa Rica in Orlando as Thomas Tuchel looks to finalize his strongest lineup ahead of the tournament opener.
England vs Costa Rica Match Preview
Match News and Current Form
England head into their final World Cup warm-up fixture after edging New Zealand 1-0 in a frustrating encounter in Florida. Harry Kane’s first-half header proved decisive as the Three Lions ended a two-match winless streak, but the overall performance raised concerns about England’s attacking sharpness.
Thomas Tuchel has experimented heavily throughout the international break, though this fixture is expected to feature a much stronger starting XI with key stars such as Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham likely to return.
Defensively, England continue to impress. The Three Lions have now won their last 12 matches without conceding a goal, showcasing the defensive structure Tuchel has quickly implemented.
Costa Rica, meanwhile, failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup after a disappointing CONCACAF qualifying campaign. Their poor form has continued under new manager Fernando Batista, who is still searching for his first victory in charge.
Los Ticos have struggled badly at the back recently, conceding ten goals across their last three friendlies, including heavy defeats against Iran and Colombia.
Head-to-Head Record
England and Costa Rica have faced each other twice previously.
- The sides played out a 0-0 draw at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
- England defeated Costa Rica 2-0 in an international friendly in 2018.
- Costa Rica have never scored against England.
Hot Stats and Trends
- England have won their last 12 victories to nil.
- England have failed to score more than once in a match during 2026.
- Costa Rica conceded 10 goals in their last three matches.
- Costa Rica are winless under Fernando Batista.
- England are unbeaten in their last seven international matches played in June.
Key Players to Watch
England – Harry Kane
England’s captain continues to deliver consistently and has now scored 79 international goals after netting against New Zealand.
Costa Rica – Manfred Ugalde
The Spartak Moscow striker remains Costa Rica’s biggest attacking weapon heading into this difficult test.
Team News
England are expected to field a near full-strength lineup with Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham and Reece James all pushing for starts.
John Stones and Marc Guehi are likely to continue in central defence.
Costa Rica remain without veteran attacker Joel Campbell, while Manfred Ugalde is expected to lead the line again.
England vs Costa Rica Betting Tips
Best Bet: England to Win to Nil
England’s defensive record under Tuchel has been excellent, while Costa Rica continue to struggle offensively against stronger opposition.
Over 2.5 Goals
With England expected to unleash a stronger attacking lineup, goals could arrive more freely here.
England -1 Handicap
Costa Rica’s recent defensive collapse suggests England could win comfortably.
Correct Score Prediction
England 3-0 Costa Rica
England’s superior quality across the pitch should see them dominate and head into the World Cup full of confidence.
Final Prediction
England to Win
England to Win to Nil
Over 2.5 Goals
Correct Score: England 3-0 Costa Rica
The Three Lions should finally produce a more convincing attacking performance and comfortably defeat a struggling Costa Rica side.



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