Anthony Gordon enjoys the pressure of representing England at the World Cup, and the latest performance shows it. The 25-year-old scored and assisted in a 3-0 win over Costa Rica in Orlando, as England completed their final warm-up match before the 2026 tournament in confident style.

Gordon acknowledged that such displays are expected at this level, especially with competition from Marcus Rashford and Eberechi Eze for a starting position in Thomas Tuchel’s squad. “There is always pressure when you play for England,” Gordon told ITV, underlining the standards within the national team setup.

The Barcelona winger set up Declan Rice for the opening goal, then extended the lead from the penalty spot after half-time, before Ollie Watkins added a late third. Gordon stepped forward once Harry Kane had been substituted, later explaining that the moment suited a player who enjoys responsibility from twelve yards.

Gordon doubled his total goal contributions for England with this display, moving from two goals in his first 18 caps to four goal involvements. He attempted four dribbles, the joint-most among England players alongside Noni Madueke, and won five of seven duels, reinforcing a case to be seen as one of England’s leading penalty options.

England’s wider form also looks strong heading into 2026. The team have avoided defeat in their last 17 matches against North and Central American opponents, winning 13 and drawing four. That sequence includes all three fixtures against Costa Rica, with two victories and one draw in those meetings.

The team are also enjoying a strong sequence away from home or on neutral soil, a trend highlighted by Opta.