The kick-off for the England v Costa Rica friendly has been pushed back to 5pm local time (10pm BST) due to severe weather conditions, including lightning and rain. Originally scheduled for 4pm local time (9pm BST), the match serves as a warm-up ahead of the World Cup 2026, which starts just 24 hours later on Thursday, 11 June.

Quick action from the Inter&Co Stadium ground staff allowed for a potential kick-off at 5pm, contingent on the absence of further lightning. The Three Lions arrived at the stadium, home to MLS side Orlando City SC, at 3:30pm local time (8:30pm BST) to finalize preparations before heading to their training base in Kansas City.

As England gears up for their first game in Group L against Croatia in Dallas, they are considered favorites to lift the trophy. However, just over two hours prior to kick-off, a heavy downpour raised doubts about the match's viability, with large pools of water forming on the pitch.

Fortunately, rain subsided and stadium staff worked diligently to dry the field, allowing fans to enter as the situation improved. Thomas Tuchel named his starting eleven, featuring Harry Kane up front, supported by Noni Madueke and Anthony Gordon. The defense included Reece James, Nico O'Reilly, Ezri Konsa, and John Stones, with Jude Bellingham positioned just ahead of Declan Rice and Elliott Anderson.

Notably, Bukayo Saka remained on the bench due to ongoing fitness concerns. Tuchel expressed caution regarding Saka's health, stating:

We still have to take a little bit of care for Bukayo who had an injury in March and carried it through to club.