Midfielder’s fitness battle ahead of Argentina clash
England faces a late decision regarding the availability of midfielder Declan Rice for the World Cup semi-final against Argentina on Wednesday. Despite battling an illness, there is optimism that the Arsenal player will be fit enough to participate in the crucial match.
Rice was substituted at half-time during England’s 2-1 quarter-final victory over Norway in Miami, a match that went into extra time. Head coach Thomas Tuchel later disclosed that Rice had spent three days in bed prior to the quarter-final due to a sickness bug. This illness was reportedly contracted in Mexico, where England had previously defeated the co-hosts 3-2 in the last 16 stage of the tournament.
Although Rice has not fully recovered from the illness, his condition has shown significant improvement over the past 48 hours. As the team prepares for the semi-final in Atlanta, hopes are growing that he will be well enough to start. Given the importance of the occasion, Rice is expected to declare himself fit, but England’s medical staff will make a final assessment on his availability.
Tuchel will monitor Rice’s recovery closely before making a definitive decision on his inclusion in the starting lineup. In addition to the sickness bug, Rice has also been managing a neural issue affecting his lower back and hamstring for several months. The midfielder, who has accumulated 78 caps for England, has started all but one of the team’s World Cup matches to date, missing the 2-0 group-stage win against Panama due to an injury flare-up.
Team concerns and goalkeeper’s perspective
Beyond Rice’s situation, England also has fitness concerns regarding defender Ezri Konsa. The Aston Villa player was substituted against Norway due to cramp, but he is anticipated to be in contention to start at right-back once more. There is also a possibility that Tuchel could bring Reece James back into the starting XI, following the Chelsea captain’s appearance as a second-half substitute against Norway. Additionally, Bukayo Saka, who made an impact off the bench in the previous match, could also be considered for a starting role.
Jordan Pickford, England’s goalkeeper, has emphasised the importance of maintaining composure against Argentina. He stated that the team will not be distracted by the intense historical rivalry between the two nations. The semi-final in Atlanta marks the first time England and Argentina have met in a World Cup since 2002. Pickford believes that keeping their focus and not losing their cool will be crucial for securing a victory.
When asked about facing Lionel Messi for the first time, the Everton goalkeeper acknowledged the Argentine’s talent but stressed the need to focus on Argentina as a whole team. He highlighted England’s desire to win titles throughout the tournament, noting their respectful conduct and ability to remain focused regardless of referee decisions. This approach, he suggested, demonstrates the team’s strong mentality.
Anticipation for a historic encounter
Authorities in Atlanta are on high alert in anticipation of Wednesday’s semi-final, with thousands of supporters from both countries expected to attend. Many seats in the stadium are unsegregated, adding to the atmosphere. Pickford recognised the significance of the game but reiterated the importance of the England squad not getting overwhelmed by the occasion.
He described the match as a game of football between two passionate sets of fans, emphasising that football brings nations together. Pickford noted that England and Argentina, along with Spain and France, are among the top four nations in the world rankings, all vying for a place in the final. He views the semi-final as an opportunity to compete against another great nation.
Pickford was part of the England team that reached the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and played in the finals of the European Championship in 2021 and 2024. Despite not having won major silverware at club level, he stated that his focus is entirely on Wednesday’s match. He believes that being at their best is essential to overcome a talented Argentina team and reach the World Cup final, aiming to bring joy to their supporters once again, similar to the sentiment of connecting the nation in 2018.
Fifa has confirmed that Ismail Elfath will be the referee for the game in Atlanta. The American official, who officiates in MLS, previously took charge of Norway’s victory over Brazil in the last 16 stage.
Source: bbc.co.uk