England midfielder Declan Rice has been declared fit and available to start Wednesday's World Cup semi-final against Argentina, providing a major boost to Thomas Tuchel's side as they prepare for the most important match of the tournament. The Arsenal star had been a doubt after missing training sessions due to a sickness bug, but Sky Sports News understands that he has now recovered and is expected to feature in the starting lineup at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
Rice's availability is a significant relief for England, who have relied heavily on the 27-year-old's energy and defensive discipline throughout the competition. His ability to cover ground and break up play has been central to England's progress, and his presence in midfield will be crucial against an Argentina side boasting the creative talents of Lionel Messi and the relentless pressing of Rodrigo De Paul. The Three Lions had been sweating over Rice's fitness in the days leading up to the semi-final, with the player's absence from full training sparking concern among fans and pundits alike.
England's path to the semi-finals has been marked by resilience and tactical discipline. After navigating a challenging group stage that included victories over Norway and a hard-fought draw against the United States, Tuchel's men produced a commanding performance in the quarter-finals to see off a spirited challenge from Portugal. Rice's role in that victory was pivotal, as he covered over 14.8 kilometres in the stifling heat of Miami, a statistic that underscores his importance to the team's work rate and defensive structure.
The semi-final against Argentina represents a formidable test. Lionel Scaloni's side have been one of the most impressive teams in the tournament, blending defensive solidity with the individual brilliance of Messi, who has been in inspired form. Argentina's quarter-final victory over Brazil was a statement of intent, and they will enter Wednesday's match with confidence. However, England will take heart from their own performances and the return of key players to full fitness. Alongside Rice, other squad members who had been carrying minor knocks are also expected to be available, giving Tuchel a full complement of options to choose from.
Meanwhile, the first semi-final of the 2026 World Cup takes place on Tuesday in Dallas, where France face Spain in a clash of two European heavyweights. France, the defending champions, have looked formidable throughout the tournament, with Kylian Mbappé leading the line and a midfield marshalled by the experienced N'Golo Kanté. Spain, under Luis de la Fuente, have impressed with their possession-based style and the emergence of young talents such as Pedri and Gavi. The winner of that match will face either England or Argentina in the final, setting up a potentially historic showdown.
The build-up to the semi-finals has been dominated by fitness concerns and tactical analysis. For England, the focus has been on how to contain Messi while still posing a threat going forward. Tuchel is expected to deploy a midfield trio that includes Rice, Jude Bellingham, and either Conor Gallagher or Kobbie Mainoo, with Harry Kane leading the attack. The defensive line, marshalled by John Stones and Harry Maguire, will need to be at its best to keep out an Argentina side that has scored freely in the knockout stages.
Off the pitch, the tournament has continued to capture the imagination of fans across the globe. The United States has embraced the World Cup with enthusiasm, with record attendances and a vibrant atmosphere in host cities. The semi-finals in Atlanta and Dallas are expected to draw massive crowds, and the stakes could not be higher. For England, a victory over Argentina would not only secure a place in the final but also avenge their defeat to the same opponents in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals, where Messi's brilliance proved decisive.
As the countdown to kick-off continues, the news of Rice's fitness has provided a timely lift for England supporters. The midfielder's ability to dictate the tempo of the game and shield the back four will be vital against an Argentina side that thrives on quick transitions. With Rice in the lineup, England's chances of reaching their first World Cup final since 1966 have received a significant boost. All eyes will now turn to Atlanta, where history awaits.
