Gordon embraces England pressure ahead of World Cup

Anthony Gordon is relishing the pressure which comes with representing England at the World Cup.

The 25-year-old starred in England’s final warm-up game, scoring and assisting as the Three Lions defeated Costa Rica 3-0 on Wednesday.

Gordon provided the pass for Declan Rice’s opener in Orlando, before doubling their lead from the penalty spot in the second half.

Ollie Watkins wrapped up the win late on; England remain unbeaten in their last 17 games against North/Central American opposition (W13 D4), including all three of their meetings with Costa Rica (W2 D1).

Gordon doubled his tally of goal involvements for England in the win, having previously scored two and assisted none in his first 18 games for his country.

The Barcelona winger attempted the joint-most dribbles of any England player (four – level with Noni Madueke), while also winning five of his seven duels.

Gordon is battling the likes of Marcus Rashford and Eberechi Eze for a starting place in Thomas Tuchel’s squad, though that does not come as a surprise.

“There is always pressure when you play for England,” Gordon told ITV.

9 – Heading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, England have now won each of their last nine games played either away or at a neutral venue – their longest ever such run. Building. pic.twitter.com/zNzPNXgGqu

— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) June 10, 2026

“As you know, there is top players behind you waiting on the bench to come on. There is always pressure. If you can’t deal with that, you’re at the wrong level.

“I’m playing with amazing players, so they make me look much better.”

Gordon also asserted himself as one of England’s best penalty takers, firing his spot-kick into the top-left corner of the goal.

He revealed he was determined to take his chance from the spot, with usual penalty taker Harry Kane substituted off.

“I was buzzing H [Harry Kane] was off,” Gordon added.

“I was looking around to find him. When he was off I wanted to take it. I love penalties and I love the pressure of it. Glad to see that one go in.”

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