England eye win over Mexico with Rice on the flank

England head into the World Cup round of 16 against Mexico with a line‑up that could see Declan Rice start at right‑back and Anthony Gordon earn a place on the left wing. Sky Sports writers have weighed the options, and their choices reflect a team still searching for balance after a mixed showing against DR Congo.

Who is likely to start for England?

Sky's panel leans on Djed Spence to fill the right‑back role after his solid display in Atlanta, while the injured Reece James and Jarrell Quansah remain unavailable. Rice and Ezri Konsa have both been tried in the position during the tournament, but Spence offers the safest cover. Up front, Harry Kane is expected to lead the line, with Marcus Rashford and Noni Madueke on the wings. Gordon, who came off the bench to set up both of Kane's goals against DR Congo, is argued to deserve a start, especially if Rashford is kept as a super‑sub.

Why the debate over the wing positions?

The right flank has been a revolving door. Spence's performance against DR Congo was serviceable, yet some critics still favour the attacking flair of Trent Alexander‑Arnold, despite his omission. On the left, Gordon's impact off the bench has impressed, but his earlier games were uneven. Madueke, who matched the most chances and dribbles in the last match, retains his spot, while Morgan Rogers is a tempting alternative if Saka is not fully fit. The midfield balance is another hot topic; Elliot Anderson and Rice provide solidity, while Kobbie Mainoo offers tighter ball control.

How does recent form shape the decision?

England entered the knockout stage on a two‑game winning run, having beaten DR Congo 2‑0 before a 1‑0 loss to an unnamed opponent. Their recent form (WWLL) shows a team capable of scoring but also vulnerable defensively. The last result – a 4‑2 victory over Croatia on 2026‑06‑17 – highlights their attacking potential, yet the defensive lapses against DR Congo keep the right‑back slot under scrutiny.

What does this mean for the upcoming match?

If Rice does take the right‑back slot, England will sacrifice some attacking width for defensive stability, a trade‑off Thomas Tuchel may accept given the limited options. Gordon's inclusion could add fresh energy against a disciplined Mexican defence, while keeping Rashford on the bench preserves a potent impact player. The final XI will likely mirror the balance of experience and youth that has defined England's World Cup journey so far.

The choices made for the Mexico tie will set the tone for the rest of the tournament. England's ability to adapt its lineup while maintaining cohesion could be the difference between a quarter‑final berth and an early exit.