England faces a late decision regarding the fitness of midfielder Declan Rice ahead of their World Cup semi-final match against Argentina on Wednesday. Despite battling illness, there is optimism that the Arsenal player will be able to feature in the crucial fixture.
Rice was substituted at half-time during England‘s quarter-final victory over Norway in Miami, a match England won 2-1 after extra time. Head coach Thomas Tuchel confirmed that Rice had spent three days unwell in the lead-up to that game. The midfielder’s condition has reportedly improved significantly over the past 48 hours, although he has not yet fully recovered from the sickness bug, which he picked up in Mexico where England defeated the co-hosts 3-2 in the last 16.
Given the importance of the semi-final, Rice is expected to be eager to play. However, due to the severity of his illness, England‘s medical staff will make a final decision on his availability closer to the match. Tuchel will monitor Rice‘s recovery before confirming his place in the starting lineup for the game in Atlanta.
Fitness Concerns and Team Preparations
In addition to the sickness bug, Rice has also been managing a neural issue affecting his lower back and hamstring for several months. He has been a consistent presence for England, starting all but one of their World Cup matches so far. His only absence was during the 2-0 group-stage win against Panama due to an injury flare-up.
Beyond Rice, England also has concerns over Ezri Konsa, the Aston Villa defender, who was substituted against Norway due to cramp. However, Konsa is anticipated to be available to start at right-back. There is also a possibility that Reece James, the Chelsea captain, could return to the starting XI after coming on as a second-half substitute against Norway. Bukayo Saka, who impressed off the bench, is another player who could potentially start.
The team has returned to their base in Kansas City before travelling to Atlanta on Tuesday. Rice is expected to start alongside Elliot Anderson in midfield against the reigning world champions, Argentina.
Focus on Mentality and the Rivalry
Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has emphasised the importance of maintaining composure against Argentina, acknowledging the intense rivalry between the two nations. The semi-final in Atlanta marks the first time England will face Argentina in the World Cup since 2002, a fixture with significant historical weight. Pickford believes that keeping a cool head will be crucial for securing a victory.
Pickford noted England‘s approach throughout the tournament, stating, "We’ve been very respectful within the game – if decisions go our way or if they don’t go our way, we just reset, we go again, and we let the football do the talking." He highlighted the team’s mentality, focusing on the game itself rather than external distractions. The Everton goalkeeper also expressed anticipation for facing Lionel Messi for the first time, while stressing the need to focus on the entire Argentina team, not just one player.
Authorities in Atlanta are preparing for a large influx of supporters from both countries, with many seats in the stadium unsegregated. Pickford acknowledged the magnitude of the occasion but stressed that England must not get overwhelmed. He described the match as "just a game of football with two sets of passionate fans."
Pickford, who was part of the England squad that reached the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and the final of the European Championship in 2021 and 2024, stated that the team’s current focus is solely on Wednesday’s match. He mentioned that England, alongside Argentina, Spain, and France, are among the top four nations in the world rankings, all vying for a place in the final. Fifa has confirmed that Ismail Elfath will referee the game in Atlanta.
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Source: bbc.com
Niamh Pendlebury is the Sports Reporter at NewsGB.org, covering tennis, cricket and athletics with seven years of reporting experience. She reported on Team GB and the county circuit. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from the University of Central Lancashire and completed an NCTJ diploma. Based in Preston, she plays club tennis and follows road running. “The best interviews come from patience, not pressure.”