Rice fit as England prepare for World Cup semi-final against Argentina

England manager Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that midfielder Declan Rice is fit to start Wednesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final against defending champions Argentina after recovering from illness.

Rice was substituted at half-time during England’s quarter-final victory over Norway due to illness, but Tuchel said the Arsenal midfielder has fully recovered and is available for selection.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday in Atlanta, the England coach revealed that nearly his entire squad is available for the crucial clash.

“Everyone is fit to start and everyone was in training except for Jarell Quansah, who is suspended, and Jordan Henderson,” Tuchel said.

Henderson has been ruled out after sustaining a broken arm in an accident following England’s Round of 16 victory over co-hosts Mexico.

Providing an update on Rice’s condition, Tuchel added: “Rice is ready to start and as well recovered as possible.”

Looking ahead to the encounter, Tuchel described England’s meeting with Argentina as one of international football’s greatest rivalries but stressed that his players are focused on the present rather than past history.

“It is a big rivalry, two big football nations. Everyone who loves football and follows the World Cup knows about this and what it brings. We expect an intense and emotional match with a lot of momentum swings,” he said.

The rivalry between the two nations includes Argentina’s famous 2-1 victory over England in the 1986 World Cup quarter-finals, featuring Diego Maradona’s controversial “Hand of God” goal and his memorable solo strike. Argentina also knocked England out of the 1998 World Cup on penalties after David Beckham’s red card.

Despite the history, Tuchel insisted those previous meetings would not influence his team’s approach.

“We don’t use it as fuel. We know why we are here and what we want. We are in the semi-finals and we arrive very hungry. We want to get the next win. We respect our opponent, but we don’t dwell on historic events or make the occasion bigger than it is,” he said.

England reached the last four after defeating Norway in the quarter-finals, while Argentina progressed as they continue their quest to successfully defend the World Cup title.