Before opening their World Cup 2026 campaign against Croatia, England play two warm-up friendlies in Florida: New Zealand on 6 June and Costa Rica on 10 June, both at 9pm UK time. Here are the previews, probable line-ups, odds and our predictions for Thomas Tuchel’s final tune-ups.
When are England’s World Cup warm-up matches?
England face New Zealand on Saturday 6 June and Costa Rica on Wednesday 10 June 2026, both in South Florida and both kicking off at 9pm UK time. These are England’s last two fixtures before they travel to their tournament base in Kansas City and begin Group L against Croatia on 17 June.
Probable England line-up for the warm-ups
Tuchel is expected to use both games to settle on his strongest XI, likely in a 4-2-3-1 built around captain Harry Kane.
- Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford
- Defence: Reece James – John Stones – Marc Guéhi – Tino Livramento
- Midfield: Declan Rice – Elliot Anderson
- Attack: Bukayo Saka – Jude Bellingham – Anthony Gordon – Harry Kane
What is Tuchel looking for in these friendlies?
Tuchel wants rhythm, fitness and a settled spine after disappointing March friendlies (a 1-1 draw with Uruguay and a 0-1 loss to Japan). The main questions are who partners Rice in midfield, whether Bellingham starts as a No.10, and how the front three combine. Avoiding injuries before Croatia is just as important as the result.
Odds and predictions
England are heavy favourites in both games. Our predictions: a comfortable win over New Zealand and a tighter victory against a well-drilled Costa Rica.
| Match | England win (decimal) | Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| England vs New Zealand | 1.25 | England 3-0 |
| England vs Costa Rica | 1.40 | England 2-0 |
Odds shown in decimal format and subject to change.
FAQ: England’s 2026 warm-ups
Who do England play before the World Cup?
England face New Zealand on 6 June and Costa Rica on 10 June 2026, both in South Florida at 9pm UK time.
When does England’s World Cup start?
England open Group L against Croatia on 17 June 2026 in Dallas, followed by Ghana and Panama.
Will Tuchel play his strongest team?
Expect Tuchel to field close to his first-choice XI to build cohesion, while carefully managing minutes to avoid injuries.
Mysports.AIAI World Cup Predictions, on Every Match
Mysports AI combines big data and machine learning to deliver accurate match predictions and betting analysis — watch football with a real edge.
🏆 AI Analysis – World Cup 2026
Mysports AI uses advanced data models to deliver the best odds, dark horse analysis and betting tips.
Get predictions
sasha 