Sport: Soccer Country: England Category: Playoffs

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 likely to start for England against DR Congo

Summary

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.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports BBC Sport

Key Details

•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.

Latest Updates

7:15 PMYahoo Sports — Boost for England as Declan Rice set to start against DR Congo
2:15 PMYahoo Sports — Rice set for England start against DR Congo
2:14 PMBBC Sport — Rice set for England start against DR Congo

What they're saying

"
England have received a major boost ahead of their World Cup round of 32 clash with DR Congo. According to BBC Sport, Declan Rice is set to return to the starting line-up for the important match on W...
— Yahoo Sports