England Pre-World Cup Friendlies Showcase Anthony Gordon's Form and Competition
England played two pre-World Cup friendlies in June 2026, defeating New Zealand 1-0 and Costa Rica 2-0. New Barcelona signing Anthony Gordon impressed with an assist and a penalty goal against Costa Rica, while competing with Marcus Rashford for the starting left-wing spot. Manager Thomas Tuchel used both matches to rotate squads and build fitness. Gordon expressed confidence in England's World Cup chances, emphasizing team unity.
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Gordon Wins 'Culé' Battle Against Rashford for England Starting Spot
Anthony Gordon, the FC Barcelona winger, has regained his starting position for England in the 2026 World Cup after a strong performance against Mexico, where he drew a key penalty. Earlier, after two disappointing starts against Croatia and Ghana, Gordon lost his spot to Marcus Rashford. However, in the round of 32 match against DR Congo, Gordon came off the bench to provide two assists to Harry Kane, leading England to a 1-2 comeback victory and qualification. His impact, including becoming the first English player to provide two assists as a substitute in a World Cup match, convinced manager Thomas Tuchel to restore him to the starting lineup. The article highlights Gordon's decisive role and his battle with Rashford for the left wing position.
Feed MRSS-S fc_barcelona_aGordon Wins 'Culé' Battle Against Rashford for England Starting Spot
Anthony Gordon, the FC Barcelona winger, has regained his starting position for England in the 2026 World Cup after a period of poor form. After two disappointing starts against Croatia and Ghana, Gordon lost his place to Marcus Rashford. However, a decisive substitute performance against DR Congo, where he provided two assists to Harry Kane, secured England's qualification. Gordon then started against Mexico, playing the full 90 minutes at the Estadio Azteca and drawing a key penalty, as noted by former England goalkeeper Joe Hart. The article highlights Gordon's battle for the left-wing position against Rashford, emphasizing his impact and vindication under coach Thomas Tuchel.
Feed MRSS-S fc_barcelona_aAnthony Gordon breaks all-time World Cup record during England vs DR Congo
During the 2026 World Cup round of 16 match between England and DR Congo, Anthony Gordon made history by becoming the first English player to record two assists from the bench in a World Cup game. Gordon, who joined Barcelona from Newcastle United before the tournament, entered the match in the 61st minute and set up both of Harry Kane's goals, helping England come from behind to win and progress to the last 16. Despite criticism of England's wide options during the tournament, including Gordon and Marcus Rashford, Gordon's performance was a standout. England is now set to face co-hosts Mexico in Mexico City at the Estadio Azteca.
Yardbarker: SoccerRashford Impresses for England, Moves Ahead of Gordon in World Cup Starting XI Race
Marcus Rashford's strong performance against Panama in the 2026 World Cup has reportedly moved him ahead of Anthony Gordon in the competition to start alongside England's attacking stars Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, and Jude Bellingham. Initially favored by coach Thomas Tuchel for his defensive sacrifice, Gordon is now expected to be benched as Tuchel leans toward Rashford's unpredictability and attacking imbalance. Rashford, still contracted to Barcelona, impressed with 33% completed dribbles and 81% passing accuracy. Legends Wayne Rooney and Rio Ferdinand praised his performance, noting it may impact Barcelona's finances. Rashford stated his focus is on starting as many games as possible and helping teammates score.
Feed MRSS-S fc_barcelona_aRashford-Gordon competition for England starting spot intensifies at World Cup 2026
England defeated Panama 0-2 to qualify for the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, with a record of two wins and one draw, scoring six goals and conceding two. The match highlighted the growing competition between Marcus Rashford and Anthony Gordon for a similar position on the wing. Rashford, on loan from Manchester United to Barcelona until June 30, scored the decisive goal against Croatia in just 18 minutes of play. Gordon, newly signed by Barcelona, started in two of the three group matches but struggled to be decisive, failing to convert chances against Ghana and was benched against Panama. Manager Thomas Tuchel has alternated both players, seeking offensive depth. Analysts believe Rashford has won the initial battle due to his experience and impactful performances. Gordon's speed was noted, but he often faced strong defensive marking. The internal rivalry has become a topic in the English press as the team moves into the knockout stage.
FútbolSpanish Media Highlight Anthony Gordon's World Cup Dilemma After Marcus Rashford Replaces Him
Spanish media have pointed out the 'big problem' facing new Barcelona signing Anthony Gordon after he was dropped from England's starting XI for their World Cup 2026 group stage match against Panama, with Marcus Rashford taking his place. England won 2-0, with goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, to advance to the round of 32. Gordon, who moved to Barcelona for £70 million in May, has underperformed in the first two group games and did not play any minutes against Panama. Spanish outlets AS and Sport suggest the swap for Rashford could be permanent, adding pressure on Gordon as the most expensive signing of the summer, while Rashford (who was on loan at Barcelona last season) impressed in his starting role.
Mirror - FootballThomas Tuchel Gets England Call Wrong as World Cup Starting XI Decision Backfires
In a 2026 World Cup Group L match, England drew 0-0 with Ghana in Boston, missing the chance to secure top spot in the group. Manager Thomas Tuchel faced criticism for starting Anthony Gordon on the left flank ahead of Marcus Rashford. Gordon, who recently transferred to Barcelona for £69.3 million, failed to make an impact for the second consecutive game, delivering a lackluster performance with low tempo and defensive lapses. Tuchel had previously rallied the team after a half-time team talk against Croatia, but Gordon's struggles continued. The article suggests Rashford, who scored three goals in the 2022 Qatar World Cup and has 28 goal involvements this season, is now poised to take the starting role. Gordon may be better suited as a substitute 'finisher' in future matches.
Mirror - FootballGordon's poor World Cup debut leaves Barcelona cold
In England's 4-2 World Cup win over Croatia, new Barcelona winger Anthony Gordon struggled, failing to make an impact and being substituted in the 72nd minute. His replacement, Marcus Rashford, scored the decisive goal, earning praise and raising questions about Gordon's starting spot. The British press rated Gordon a 3/10, the lowest on the team, noting only 17 touches, 0/2 dribbles, and 0/2 duels won. The performance contrasts sharply with his impressive display in a warm-up match against Costa Rica, which had earned him a starting role under coach Thomas Tuchel. The article expresses concern from a Barcelona perspective about their recent £70 million signing.
Feed MRSS-S fc_barcelona_aGordon leaves Barça cold with poor World Cup debut performance
Anthony Gordon, Barcelona's new winger, had a disappointing World Cup debut for England against Croatia on June 17, 2026. Despite earning a starting spot under coach Thomas Tuchel after a strong warm-up performance against Costa Rica, Gordon failed to impress in the 4-2 victory. He was substituted in the 72nd minute after an anonymous first half with only nine touches, zero crosses, and no successful dribbles or duels. His replacement, Marcus Rashford, scored the decisive fourth goal, highlighting Gordon's poor showing. The British press gave him a rating of 3 out of 10, the lowest on the team, and social media criticized his performance. Gordon acknowledged Rashford's impact but struggled to make his mark in the match at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Feed MRSS-S fc_barcelona_aAnthony Gordon Starts as Tuchel's First-Choice Left Winger in 2026 World Cup
Anthony Gordon, recently signed by Barcelona for the 2026-27 season, started as England's left winger under manager Thomas Tuchel in their 2026 World Cup group stage match against Croatia. Although he did not score like Marcus Rashford, who replaced him in the 71st minute, Gordon impressed with his pace (35.3 km/h top speed) and pressing, fulfilling Tuchel's tactical role to wear down the Croatian defense. He had two shots saved by Dominik Livakovic and completed 82% of his passes. The article contrasts his improved role compared to Euro 2024, where he played only five minutes under Gareth Southgate. England, a top contender for the July 19 final in New Jersey, will face Ghana next, with Tuchel yet to decide whether to start Gordon or Rashford.
FútbolSpanish Journalists Criticize Anthony Gordon's Performance in England's World Cup Opener
In England's 2026 World Cup opener against Croatia, played at Dallas Stadium and won 4-2, manager Thomas Tuchel preferred Anthony Gordon over Marcus Rashford. However, the Barcelona new signing's performance drew criticism from Spanish journalists on the show 'El Larguero.' Analyst Natalia Arroyoe noted that Croatia's three-center-back formation made it difficult for wide players, while Bruno Alemany acknowledged Gordon's speed, goal sense, and defensive work rate but described his overall performance as tricky. Manu Carreño stated that more is expected from a player recruited for €70 million. The article highlights the scrutiny on Gordon despite England's victory.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertSpanish Media Criticize Anthony Gordon as Marcus Rashford Outshines Him in England World Cup Win
Spanish media heavily criticized Anthony Gordon's performance in England's World Cup group stage win over Croatia, questioning Barcelona's £70 million signing of the winger. Gordon started the match but was largely ineffective, failing to complete dribbles and having little impact. In contrast, Marcus Rashford, who came off the bench, scored the game-clinching fourth goal in the 85th minute. The match highlighted the ongoing competition for the left-wing position, with Rashford's future at Manchester United uncertain after a failed permanent move to Barcelona. Spanish outlets like La Vanguardia, El Periodico, and Mundo Deportivo noted Gordon's subdued display and Rashford's decisive contribution, though some cautioned against drawing premature conclusions from one game.
Mirror - FootballGordon's Start Performance Falls Short; Rashford's Goal Threatens His Starting Spot
In the first round of the 2026 World Cup group stage, England defeated Croatia 4-2. Anthony Gordon started on the left wing but was largely ineffective, lacking chemistry with Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham. He was substituted in the 72nd minute for Marcus Rashford, who scored a brilliant goal 10 minutes later, cutting inside from the left edge of the penalty area and slotting the ball into the far corner to seal the win. The performance has led to speculation that Gordon may lose his starting spot for the next match against Ghana, with Rashford sending a clear message to head coach Thomas Tuchel that he is ready to return to the starting lineup.
虎扑 - 足球Anthony Gordon's Spanish Surprise: Six Lessons Led to Barcelona Presentation Speech
FC Barcelona swiftly secured English winger Anthony Gordon from Newcastle for €70 million plus €10 million in variables, with sporting director Deco finalizing the deal in days. At his presentation, Gordon surprised fans by speaking Spanish, revealing he had taken only six lessons but practiced with a Spanish physiotherapist at Newcastle. The 25-year-old will compete with Raphinha for a starting spot, replacing Marcus Rashford, whose loan Barcelona may extend. Gordon is set to debut for England in the World Cup against Croatia on Wednesday, amid surreal setbacks including a nearby shooting, a 6.1 magnitude earthquake, theft of equipment, and a tornado warning. Despite these challenges, Gordon expressed excitement for his first World Cup, calling it a memory-making experience, and will join Barcelona training after the tournament.
Últimas NoticiasAnthony Gordon Reveals He Learned Spanish with Only Six Lessons Before Barcelona Transfer
FC Barcelona secured English winger Anthony Gordon for €70 million plus €10 million in variables, with sporting director Deco finalizing the deal quickly. At his presentation, Gordon surprised fans by speaking Spanish, revealing he had only taken six lessons. He credited conversations with Newcastle's Spanish physiotherapist Daniel Martí for helping him master the language. The 25-year-old replaces his England teammate Marcus Rashford in Barcelona's squad; Barcelona chose to wait until the end of the transfer window to attempt extending Rashford's loan from Manchester United. Gordon will compete with Raphinha for a starting spot. He is set to debut in the World Cup on Wednesday in England's match against Croatia, where he is tipped to start. Gordon scored a penalty and assisted in a 3-0 pre-World Cup victory over Costa Rica. He expressed excitement about his first World Cup and will join Barcelona training after the tournament ends.
Últimas NoticiasAnthony Gordon's Spanish Surprise: Six Lessons Led to Barcelona Presentation Speech
FC Barcelona secured English winger Anthony Gordon from Newcastle for €70 million plus €10 million in variables, with Deco closing the deal quickly. At his presentation, Gordon surprised fans by speaking Spanish, revealing he had taken only six lessons but practiced with Newcastle's Spanish physiotherapist Daniel Martí. The 25-year-old will compete with Raphinha for a starting spot, replacing Marcus Rashford, whose loan Barcelona may extend. Gordon is set to debut for England in the World Cup against Croatia, despite surreal setbacks including a nearby shooting, an earthquake, theft of equipment, and a tornado warning. England manager Thomas Tuchel and the team faced winds up to 128 km/h and lightning. Gordon expressed excitement for his first World Cup, calling it a memory-making experience, and will join Barcelona training after the tournament.
Últimas NoticiasBarça has signed a beast: watch Anthony Gordon's recital with England
The article reports that FC Barcelona has signed English winger Anthony Gordon, highlighting his performance for the England national team in a friendly match against Costa Rica. Gordon played 70 minutes, showcasing his quality and scoring a penalty. The piece is published by AS Barcelona, a Spanish sports outlet, and includes promotional elements for newsletters and app subscriptions. It also teases other unrelated stories about Jorge Valdano and a Classic Match striker.
Feed MRSS-S fc_barcelona_aAnthony Gordon Shines for England in World Cup Warm-Up, Impressing Tuchel and Barcelona
Anthony Gordon delivered a standout performance for England in a 3-0 friendly win over Costa Rica, scoring a penalty, providing an assist, and winning a penalty that was overturned by VAR. The FC Barcelona new signing, whose move reportedly delighted manager Thomas Tuchel, was widely praised by British media as England's best player. Gordon's display, described as 'full of energy, intensity, and commitment,' puts pressure on Marcus Rashford for the starting left-wing spot. Gordon noted he loves the pressure of taking penalties, while Tuchel praised the collective team performance. Gordon's absence from Newcastle's final Premier League matches due to physical issues may leave him fresher for the World Cup.
Últimas NoticiasAnthony Gordon Shines for England in World Cup Warm-Up, Impressing Tuchel and Barcelona
In England's final World Cup 2026 preparation friendly against Costa Rica in Orlando, Anthony Gordon delivered a standout performance, scoring a penalty, providing an assist, and winning a penalty that was overturned by VAR. The FC Barcelona new signing, whose move reportedly delighted coach Thomas Tuchel, earned a 9/10 rating from Sky Sports and The Sun, being named MVP. Gordon's display, described as energetic and intense, puts pressure on Marcus Rashford for the starting left-wing spot. After the match, Gordon spoke about handling pressure for England and his eagerness to take penalties. Tuchel praised the team's collective performance but refrained from singling out individuals.
Últimas NoticiasGordon's Impressive Display for England Ahead of World Cup: Goal and Assist
The article reports on Anthony Gordon's performance for England in a pre-World Cup friendly against Costa Rica. Gordon, who recently signed for FC Barcelona in a swift and unexpected transfer, will debut for the club after the World Cup. In the match, he provided an assist to Declan Rice for the opening goal, created numerous chances with his dribbling and pace, and scored a penalty in the second half to secure a 2-0 victory. The report highlights his verticality, daring style, and one-on-one ability, which Barcelona manager Hansi Flick hopes to utilize. Gordon was a constant threat, tormenting the Costa Rican defense and winning a disallowed penalty.
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