Key Takeaways:
- England will meet New Zealand on 6 June in Tampa for their initial World Cup 2026 warm-up in the United States
- The Three Lions are scheduled for a second friendly in Florida four days later, with the opponent yet to be confirmed
- New Zealand forward Chris Wood, currently recovering from a knee injury, hopes to feature in the Tampa clash
Preparations Begin for World Cup 2026 Campaign
England have unveiled their summer plans ahead of the 2026 World Cup by arranging a friendly encounter against New Zealand in Tampa, Florida on 6 June. This marks the Three Lions’ first confirmed warm-up fixture on American soil as part of their build-up to the tournament. The squad, under Thomas Tuchel, is scheduled to arrive in the US on 1 June, proceeding to a pre-tournament training camp that will feature two friendly matches before relocating to their base in Kansas City.
🏴🦁 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬: England 2026 World Cup Home Kit Leaked [via @vladieboi]: https://t.co/bzqz9P5C1P
— Footy Headlines (@Footy_Headlines) February 3, 2026
Familiar Foes Return with Only Previous Encounters in 1991
New Zealand, currently standing at 85th in the FIFA rankings, will provide a competitive test for England as both nations prepare for their respective World Cup groups. Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood, who is sidelined with a knee problem, will be keen to make his return for the All Whites pending fitness. Historically, the teams have met just twice, with England victorious on both occasions during their 1991 mini-tour of New Zealand.
England and New Zealand’s World Cup Schedules
While England, now ranked fourth globally and just above Brazil, are set for their group stage opener against Croatia on 17 June, New Zealand will open against Iran on 15 June, with later fixtures against Egypt and Belgium. England’s Group G campaign also includes matches versus Ghana and Panama.
| Team | FIFA Ranking | First World Cup Match | Other Group Opponents |
|---|---|---|---|
| England | 4 | 17 June vs Croatia | Ghana, Panama |
| New Zealand | 85 | 15 June vs Iran | Egypt, Belgium |
Further Friendlies and Acclimatisation Plans
England continue to focus on their preparations, with two additional friendlies at Wembley scheduled: Uruguay on 27 March, followed by Japan four days later. The upcoming training trip to Florida has been identified as key for acclimatisation, given the high temperatures expected during the tournament games spread across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. While the opponent for the second US-based match is still unconfirmed, the venue will be either Orlando or Miami.
Tuchel’s Upcoming Commitments and UEFA Nations League
Manager Thomas Tuchel will travel to Brussels next Thursday to attend the UEFA Nations League draw, as England return to League A. The autumn will feature all six matches, including a four-match international break commencing in late September.
