Declan Rice likely to start for England against DR Congo
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 28, 2026, 2:14 PM
Last updated Jun 28, 2026

Declan Rice is expected to start for England in their World Cup last-32 match against DR Congo on Wednesday in Atlanta. The midfielder was rested during England's 2-0 win over Panama after sustaining a calf injury in a previous match against Ghana. England manager Thomas Tuchel expressed optimism about Rice's fitness, although he faces injury concerns with Reece James and Jarell Quansah. Quansah is a major doubt with an ankle injury, and James is unlikely to return before later in the tournament. Djed Spence could replace Quansah if necessary.
- •Rice expected to return to the starting XI against DR Congo.
- •Tuchel has injury concerns, especially at right-back.
- •Spence could start if Quansah and James are unable to play.
- •England won their last match against Panama 2-0.
- 2:15 PMYahoo Sports — Rice set for England start against DR Congo
- 2:14 PMBBC Sport — Rice set for England start against DR Congo
"Declan Rice is expected to be available to start England's World Cup last-32 tie with DR Congo on Wednesday.
"Declan Rice is expected to be available to start England's World Cup last-32 tie with DR Congo on Wednesday.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 28, 2026, 2:15 PMRice set for England start against DR Congo
Declan Rice is expected to be available to start England's World Cup last-32 tie with DR Congo on Wednesday.
- BBC SportJun 28, 2026, 2:14 PMRice set for England start against DR Congo
Declan Rice is expected to be available to start England's World Cup last-32 tie with DR Congo on Wednesday.
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