England will face New Zealand and Costa Rica in Florida as part of their final preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
The England national football team have confirmed two final warm-up matches ahead of this summer’s World Cup, with fixtures against New Zealand and Costa Rica scheduled to take place in Florida.
England will first meet New Zealand in Tampa on June 6, marking the Oceanian side’s return to the World Cup stage for the first time since 2010. Four days later, Thomas Tuchel’s team will face Costa Rica in Orlando, with both games forming part of a training camp in South Florida.
The final stop before the @FIFAWorldCup 🏆
Venues have been confirmed for our #ThreeLions‘ fixtures against New Zealand and Costa Rica ⤵️
— England (@England) April 9, 2026
According to The Football Association, the fixtures are designed to fine-tune preparations before the squad moves to its base in Kansas City for the duration of the tournament. The FA described the matches as a key component of England’s final build-up.
These games follow England’s recent international friendlies against Uruguay and Japan. The matches offered Tuchel an opportunity to experiment with his lineup, test squad depth, and assess tactical adjustments ahead of the World Cup. The encounter with Uruguay provided a physical test against experienced opposition, while the clash with Japan focused on dealing with high pressing and quick transitions.
Both matches were viewed as valuable learning experiences as England refined their approach.
England reached the quarter-finals in the previous World Cup and will be aiming to go further this time. The Three Lions begin their Group L campaign against Croatia on June 17, and the Florida fixtures are expected to provide crucial momentum as Tuchel’s side looks to enter the tournament fully prepared and confident.
