England to face New Zealand and Costa Rica in friendlies ahead of World Cup

England will have two friendlies ahead of the World Cup
England will have two friendlies ahead of the World CupJonathan Brady / PA Images / Profimedia

England will play New ⁠Zealand and Costa Rica in Florida in June ‌as part of their preparations ‌for the 2026 ‌World Cup, the Football ‌Association said on Wednesday.

Thomas Tuchel's ‌side will take on New Zealand on ‌June 6th before facing ⁠Costa ‌Rica on June 10th, with ​the venues to be announced at a ​later date.

England last played Costa Rica in a ⁠friendly win in 2018, while they also faced the Central American side in the ‌2014 World Cup, where they played out a 0-0 draw.

New Zealand, who have also qualified for the World Cup, last faced England in 1991, losing two friendlies ‌in Auckland and Wellington.

At ​the 2026 World Cup, ‌which kicks off on June 11th, England will face Croatia, Ghana and Panama in Group ⁠L.

21+ | COMPETENT REGULATOR EEEP | RISK OF ADDICTION & LOSS OF PROPERTY | KETHEA HELPLINE: 210 9237777 | PLAY RESPONSIBLY & SAFELY |

Do you want to withdraw your consent to display betting ads?
Yes, change settings