Jude Bellingham shows promise as England kicks off World Cup preparations

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 7, 2026, 11:15 AM

Last updated Jun 7, 2026

Jude Bellingham shows promise as England kicks off World Cup preparations
Summary

England manager Thomas Tuchel expressed confidence in Jude Bellingham ahead of the World Cup after the midfielder captained the team during a 1-0 warm-up victory over New Zealand in Tampa. Bellingham, recovering from injury, appeared fresh and eager to contribute, reflecting a positive trajectory as he returns to form. Alongside Bellingham, Reece James also showcased his readiness, having returned from a hamstring issue. England continues its preparations with a final friendly against Costa Rica on June 10, before starting the World Cup campaign against Croatia on June 17.

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  • •Bellingham captained England in a win against New Zealand.
  • •Tuchel noted Bellingham's energy and decisiveness post-injury.
  • •Reece James is also recovering and contributing to the team.
  • •England's next match is against Costa Rica on June 10.
  • •The World Cup opener for England is scheduled against Croatia on June 17.
Latest Updates
  • 11:15 AMYahoo Sports — Thomas Tuchel says Jude Bellingham has found his ‘sweet spot’ heading into World Cup
What they're saying
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Tuchel handed Bellingham the captain’s armband for the second half of Saturday’s scrappy 1-0 warm-up friendly against New Zealand

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