The England national team secured a commanding 6-0 victory over Miami FC in a closed-door friendly held at their training base in West Palm Beach, Florida on 11/6. This dominant performance provides an ideal boost as they finalize preparations for the 2026 World Cup.

Against an opponent from the US second division, the Three Lions asserted their authority, scoring 5 goals in the second half. Ivan Toney, a striker for Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli, was a standout performer, netting a hat-trick that included a spectacular goal from outside the box. The remaining three goals were scored by Jordan Henderson, Ethan Nwaneri, and Liverpool's young talent, Rio Ngumoha.

Harry Kane talks with teammates during an England training session in the US ahead of the 2026 World Cup. *Photo: PA*

According to British newspaper Sunsport, Ngumoha also made his mark with a beautiful long-range strike. However, the 17-year-old is not eligible for England's World Cup squad. Coach Thomas Tuchel brought him to the US to support the squad during training and preparation, but he was not on the preliminary 55-player roster registered before the tournament.

This friendly victory follows two previous official matches where England also defeated New Zealand and Costa Rica without conceding a goal. Harry Kane scored the only goal in the win against New Zealand, while Declan Rice, Anthony Gordon, and Ollie Watkins scored against Costa Rica.

Coach Thomas Tuchel during an England training session in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, US on 2/6. *Photo: AP*

Following the Miami FC match, Tuchel granted the entire team a day and a half off, expressing confidence that his players would not abuse the freedom given. The German coach stated that the players could do almost anything they wanted during this short break, as long as they did not travel by air, before the entire team departs for Kansas City on 13/6.

This decision aligns with the atmosphere England has fostered during their time in Florida, combining high-intensity training and friendly matches with ample time for family and friends. Since arriving in West Palm Beach early last week, players have been allowed out in the evenings and have largely been undisturbed by the media.

"I want the players to have a day and a half to relax and decompress, not just physically but mentally. After that, we will move on to the next chapter, which is the World Cup group stage," Tuchel said. "A change of scenery is also good. We have had a great time here, but sometimes the mind also needs a change."

The 52-year-old coach emphasized his complete trust in the players' professionalism. "They are all adults. They are also very determined. Trust is not one-sided. We give them responsibility and expect them to respond with professionalism," the former Chelsea coach said. "They are ambitious players, share a common dream, and understand what needs to be done to achieve that goal. I completely trust that they will not compromise that."

England players sign autographs for fans after a training session in Florida on 3/6.

Tuchel also hinted at the possibility of using Jude Bellingham in a false nine role at the 2026 World Cup after experimenting with this option in the match against Costa Rica. The Real Madrid midfielder was pushed highest up the attack after Harry Kane left the field for Morgan Rogers in the 63rd minute. Although he only played a few more minutes before being substituted, Bellingham still made an impact with a dribble and assist that led to England being awarded a penalty, which Anthony Gordon converted.

At the 2026 World Cup, England will play their opening match in Group L against Croatia on 17/6, before facing Ghana and Panama.

Hong Duy (according to The Sun, Guardian)