Harry Kane takes to the field this Wednesday (10) as the highlight of the English team against Costa Rica, at the Inter&Co Stadium, in Orlando (United States). England’s captain and historic top scorer is experiencing the best moment of his career and uses the international friendly as a last laboratory before his debut at the 2026 World Cup. The game starts at 5pm (Brasília time).
The Bayern Munich center forward arrives with impressive numbers: 79 goals for the national team in 113 games, in addition to an overwhelming season at the club. Kane recently claimed to be in the best physical and mental shape of his career, ready to lead the Three Lions in pursuit of the world title the country has lacked since 1966.
Harry Kane, the center of attention
At 32 years old, the English captain is Thomas Tuchel’s main asset. After scoring the winning goal against New Zealand in the previous friendly, Kane should be the pivot of the English attack once again. His finishing ability, vision of the game and leadership on the field make him indispensable to the German coach’s scheme.
Probable lineups
England(4-2-3-1): Pickford; Reece James (or Quansah), Stones, Guéhi, O’Reilly (or Spence); Mainoo (or Rice), Henderson (or Bellingham); Saka (or Madueke), Bellingham, Gordon (or Rashford);Harry Kane. Coach: Thomas Tuchel.
Costa Rica: Sequeira; Quirós, Mitchell, Faerron, Araya; Salazar, Flores; Mora, Soto, Alcócer; Ugalde. The Central American team must close down to try to exploit counterattacks against the English power.
The formations take into account the last training sessions and the gradual return of elite players. Kane should have the freedom to drop down the sides and combine with Bellingham and Saka.
Where to watch live
The clash will be broadcast live on ESPN and Disney+. ge.globo monitors you in real time with bids, statistics and updates.
History and last games
England and Costa Rica have faced each other a few times, with a clear advantage for the Europeans. The last meeting at the World Cup ended in a goalless draw in 2014. Kane has already shone in similar duels, with decisive goals in preparations.
England’s last 5 games: positive sequence with victories in the qualifiers and the 1-0 victory over New Zealand, goal by Kane. The team shows defensive solidity and offensive efficiency centered on the captain.
Costa Rica’s last 5 games: mixed results in friendlies, with difficulties against high-level teams. The team seeks to improve collective performance.
Kane’s impact on World Cup preparations
For Tuchel, the friendly serves to improve the balance of the attack around Kane, who should be the reference in his debut against Croatia in the World Cup. A good performance by the captain increases the group’s confidence, which sees him as a leader capable of making a difference in big games. For Costa Rica, the duel is an opportunity to measure strength against one of the main candidates for the title.
Orlando weather forecast: temperatures between 27°C and 33°C, with a chance of rain showers in the afternoon, typical of Florida. The heat and humidity may demand more physical conditioning, especially from Kane, who is coming off an intense season.
Guesses: England should win with a comfortable score, something like 3-1, with Kane scoring at least one goal by exploiting his coolness inside the area.
Curiosities: The match is part of the preparatory series in the USA. Kane, England’s record goalscorer, can extend his historic record and enter the World Cup even more motivated.
Arbitration: Official details not confirmed at this time, following FIFA rules for friendlies.
Tickets: Available on official platforms for the stadium in Orlando.