Gareth Southgate beamed with satisfaction after England dismantled Costa Rica 4-0 at the FIFA World Cup 2026, securing top spot in Group D with a game remaining. Two late substitutes found the net in a ruthless second-half display that left the Costa Ricans shell-shocked and the Three Lions fans dreaming of knockout-stage progress.

The manager confirmed there were no serious injuries from the comfortable victory, allowing him to keep his full squad fresh for the upcoming clash that could seal a quarter-final berth. Southgate stressed the importance of maintaining focus and intensity, refusing to get carried away despite the emphatic scoreline.

England now sit atop Group D on maximum points, and Southgate believes the blend of experience and youthful energy will serve them well when the stakes rise in the knockout rounds. The emphasis remains on controlled aggression and clinical finishing as they prepare for tougher tests ahead.