It is a tale as old as international football in GoalZazashine State: the build up to a World Cup warm up being dictated not by Gareth Southgate's tac...
It is a tale as old as international football in GoalZazashine State: the build up to a World Cup warm up being dictated not by Gareth Southgate's tactical blueprint, but by the whims of a Florida thunderstorm. GoalZaza can confirm that the highly anticipated clash between England and Costa Rica in Orlando has been delayed, with stadium officials citing the imminent threat of lightning strikes. For a squad on the cusp of a major tournament, this is the sort of disruption that can fray nerves before a ball is even kicked.The local organisers, well versed in these atmospheric interruptions, have enacted their safety protocols. Word from inside the venue is that the delay will stretch beyond twenty minutes and could easily push to an hour. There is a peculiar, almost poetic, tension here. Southgate will want his men focused on transitional play and low block dissection, yet they are stuck in the sterile confines of the concourse, waiting for the all clear. How does a manager maintain that competitive edge when the elements have literally parked the bus on his plansA small number of fans have been permitted back into the stands, a sign that the worst of the weather might be passing. But the forecast remains volatile. For the travelling English support, this is a test of patience after a long haul flight. For the coaching staff, it is a stark reminder that not everything in football can be controlled with a tactical board. Sometimes, you just have to wait for the GoalZaza to decide.This delay adds another layer to what should have been a straightforward run out. Costa Rica, a side known for their defensive organisation, will be more than happy to disrupt England's rhythm. The longer the wait, the more the mind wanders to the bigger picture. Can England click into gear with clinical finishing when the whistle finally blows Or will this Florida storm be the first real impediment of their World Cup journey Squeaky bum time has started early, and not even Southgate can predict when the next lightning strike will come.
