Rio Ngumoha Named on England Bench for New Zealand Friendly but Ineligible for World Cup Call‑Up

Liverpool youngster Rio Ngumoha has been named on the bench for England’s 2026 World Cup warm‑up friendly against New Zealand, with the 17‑year‑old on standby to make his senior international debut.

However, the highly rated starlet cannot receive a late call‑up to Thomas Tuchel’s final World Cup squad, as he was not included in England’s provisional 55‑man list submitted to FIFA.

England coach Thomas Tuchel in training ahead of the game against Wales (Photo Credit: England X handle)

Softfootball understands, England manager Thomas Tuchel is keen to hand Ngumoha his first senior cap, a move that would further strengthen England’s hold on one of their brightest young dual‑nationals, with the winger also eligible to represent Nigeria.

England defeated New Zealand 1–0, with Harry Kane scoring in the 45+3 minute. - Photo Credit : TNTsports — England defeated New Zealand 1–0, with Harry Kane scoring in the 45+3 minute. – Photo Credit : TNTsports

England defeated New Zealand 1–0, with Harry Kane scoring in the 45+3 minute. The Three Lions now turn their attention to their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they face Croatia on Wednesday, 17 June 2026.

England’s World Cup Group‑Stage Schedule

Date	Kick‑off (BST)	Match	Venue	Broadcaster
17 June	9:00pm	England vs Croatia	Dallas Stadium	ITV
23 June	9:00pm	England vs Ghana	Boston Stadium	BBC
27 June	10:00pm	Panama vs England	New York/New Jersey Stadium	ITV