England's friendly with Costa Rica DELAYED after downpour

England's friendly with Costa Rica has been delayed after a downpour left the pitch unplayable.

Heavy rainfall in Orlando has flooded the pitch, and while the game will still go ahead, it will take time for the rain to subside and the playing surface to drain. A flood warning had been in effect until 15:45 local time (20:45 BST), and kick-off has been delayed by an hour.

It's hardly ideal preparations for Thomas Tuchel's men for the Three Lions' final official World Cup warm-up before their campaign begins next Wednesday against Croatia, though there is another behind-closed-doors friendly scheduled to give players minutes who don't get enough playing time tonight.

It also serves as a warning for the rest of the World Cup, with seven matches due to be held in nearby Miami. Located 240 miles down the Florida coast, June represents the start of rainy season with storms a regular occurrence.

Miami will play host to Scotland's group game with Brazil, and would host England's quarter-final clash with Brazil should both sides top their group and reach that stage.

Liam Williams

• England Men's Football Team
• International Football
• • 
  •