Will Declan Rice Play vs. Argentina?

England's midfielder Declan Rice has been a crucial player for the team in the 2026 World Cup so far, but his fitness has been a concern ahead of the semifinal match against Argentina. According to recent reports, Rice has been struggling with an illness and a neural issue affecting his lower back and hamstring.

What happened?

Rice has started in every England game of the 2026 World Cup so far, but in the quarterfinal match against Norway, the midfielder only played the first half. He was taken off before the start of the second half, reportedly due to an illness. Rice spent most of the three days before England's quarter-final against Norway in bed due to an illness.

Why it matters for England

The Three Lions will look to reach its second-ever World Cup final after only reaching the final in 1966, when it won the tournament. With Rice's fitness uncertain, England's chances of winning the tournament may be affected.

What comes next?

England will face Argentina in the semifinal match at home on July 15, 2026. The team will be looking to secure a spot in the World Cup final, but Rice's fitness will be a major concern.

Recent form (last 5): 5W-0D-0L (WWWWW, most recent first); on a 5-game winning run.

Last result: Norway 1-2 England (2026-07-11). Currently sidelined: Jordan Henderson.

Latest Injury Update

Sky Sports News reports that Declan Rice is fit and available to start for England against Argentina in the 2026 World Cup semifinal. The Guardian Sport reports that Rice is recovering well from the illness ahead of the game against Argentina. Rice also continues to manage an ongoing neural issue affecting his lower back and hamstring, which Arsenal and the England national team have monitored for several months.

The Three Lions will be looking to secure a spot in the World Cup final, but Rice's fitness will be a major concern. England will face Argentina in the semifinal match at home on July 15, 2026.