Declan Rice has recovered from a stomach bug and lingering injuries to make himself available for England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina on Wednesday at Atlanta Stadium. Earlier this week we reported on Lionel Messi's first-ever test against England in 205 senior caps. Standard Sport confirmed Rice has shaken off his illness. The midfielder's recovery comes after three days in bed with a stomach bug before the quarter-final win over Norway, demonstrating the resilience that has characterized England's tournament run through North America.
Rice carried fatigue, neural pain in his hamstring and lower back, and lingering calf issues into Saturday's match. When the contest progressed to extra-time, Tuchel withdrew him at half-time, replacing him with Eberechi Eze. The substitution invites competing readings. The manager framed it as a positive tactical switch, choosing to adapt England's approach with fresh legs. Yet Rice's visible exhaustion leaving the stadium suggested fitness concerns may have influenced the call as much as tactical calculation did.
Rice's tournament performance despite injury setbacks
Over five World Cup appearances, Rice has logged 398 minutes and averaged a rating of 6.93, solid midfield work despite battling sickness and physical strain. England will deploy that control and composure against Argentina, who remain unbeaten through all five World Cup matches this tournament. Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0, Austria 2-0, Jordan 3-1, Egypt 3-2, and Mexico 3-2, a record that has made them the tournament's most feared side.
Jude Bellingham proved decisive against Norway. He scored twice in extra-time to seal the victory, taking his tournament tally to six goals in six matches—one every 88 minutes, a rate that leads the tournament. His peak performances have arrived in knockout moments: a 9.3 rating with a goal and assist against Panama, and two goals in 100 minutes against Mexico, suggesting he raises his level when the stakes intensify.
England vs Argentina kicks off Wednesday at Atlanta Stadium. Argentina hunt a second consecutive World Cup final. England chase their first final appearance since 1966. Rice will be there, illness overcome, battle-hardened through a tournament that has tested his midfield credentials through sickness, injury, and the demands of extra-time football.
Written by Jack Mercer with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 1 outlet. How we work →