Declan Rice fit for England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina as Thomas Tuchel confirms the midfielder is ready after recovering from illness

England manager Thomas Tuchel confirmed on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, in Atlanta that midfielder Declan Rice is fit to start the World Cup semi-final against defending champions Argentina after recovering from illness.

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The Arsenal midfielder had been a doubt after he was substituted at half-time during England’s quarter-final victory over Norway, but Tuchel said Rice has returned to full training and is ready for the crucial encounter.

“Everyone is fit to start and everyone was in training except for Jarell (Quansah), who is suspended, and Jordan Henderson,” Tuchel told reporters during his pre-match press conference.

Providing further reassurance on Rice’s condition, the England manager said: “Rice is ready to start and as well recovered as possible.”

Rice’s availability comes as a major boost for England, with the midfielder playing an important role in controlling games and providing defensive stability from midfield throughout the tournament.

England will face Argentina in a highly anticipated semi-final clash, with both nations carrying a long and historic football rivalry into the fixture.

Tuchel described the meeting as one of the biggest occasions in international football, predicting an intense contest between two teams with strong World Cup ambitions.

“It is a big rivalry, two big football nations. Everyone who loves football and follows the World Cup knows about this and about what it brings,” he said.

“We expect an intense and emotional match, with a lot of momentum swings.”

The rivalry between England and Argentina has produced several memorable World Cup moments, including Argentina’s controversial 2-1 victory in the 1986 quarter-finals, when Diego Maradona scored the famous “Hand of God” goal and a remarkable solo effort.

Argentina also defeated England on penalties in the 1998 World Cup round of 16 after David Beckham was sent off during the match.

However, Tuchel insisted his team would not rely on past encounters for motivation as they focus on reaching the final.

“We don’t use it as a fuel,” he said.

“We know why we are here, we know what we want. We respect our opponent but we don’t dip into historic events and we don’t make it bigger than it is.”

England secured their semi-final place after overcoming Norway, while Argentina advanced as they continue their pursuit of a second consecutive World Cup title.

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With Rice available and the final within reach, Tuchel’s side will look to produce another strong performance against a team determined to defend its global crown.