A first in football history before the World Cup: VIP dinner at the corner flag

The England vs. Costa Rica friendly match, played in the USA as part of preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, was marked more by the luxury dining tables set up on the sidelines than by the football on the pitch. Fans sitting at VIP tables placed just behind the corner flag followed the match while dining only a few meters away from the green pitch. These images, which shook social media, have sparked a new debate about the future commercialization of football.

The USA, which will host the World Cup, has begun to integrate its show and "entertainment" culture into football stadiums. In the match played at the Inter & Co Stadium in Orlando, a practice that shatters traditional stadium habits was implemented.

"PICNIC" ENJOYMENT BEHIND THE ADVERTISING BOARDS

As the match began, the most striking detail that appeared on TV screens and in the frames of fans in the stands was the special tables placed behind the advertising boards right next to the corner flag.

A limited number of privileged fans watched the match in the comfort of a restaurant, accompanied by rich food and beverage menus served to them, right next to the area where corner kicks were taken.

The fact that players saw people eating right next to them while taking throw-ins and corner kicks was met with astonishment and a bit of humor by football fans watching from home.

ENGLAND WON COMFORTABLY ON THE PITCH

In the match, which remained in the shadow of this extraordinary VIP experience on the sidelines, England made a show of strength before the tournament. Displaying a dominant game on the pitch with its strong squad, the island nation defeated Costa Rica with a clear score of 3-0.

The goals that brought victory to England were scored by:

•Declan Rice

•Anthony Gordon

•Ollie Watkins