Declan Rice's availability is the primary concern for England manager Thomas Tuchel ahead of the World Cup semi-final against Argentina. The Arsenal midfielder was substituted at half-time in the quarter-final win over Norway due to a sickness bug and appeared exhausted after the match. Assistant manager Anthony Barry confirmed Rice could not play 90 minutes. However, there is optimism that he will recover in time to start the semi-final in Atlanta on Wednesday.
Tuchel's Selection Dilemmas
Reece James made his first appearance since the Ghana game when he came on in midfield against Norway. He is the only fit right-back in the squad, but Tuchel must decide whether to start James at full-back or persist with centre-back Ezri Konsa in that role. If James starts, Tuchel will need to choose two of John Stones, Marc Guehi, or Konsa to leave on the bench. All three defenders impressed against Norway as England held on for victory after extra time.
Left-Back and Attacking Options
On the left flank, Djed Spence is pushing to replace Nico O'Reilly at left-back after another impactful substitute appearance. O'Reilly has been nursing a hamstring complaint, but it is expected to have eased by game day. In attack, Noni Madueke's place is under threat after a disappointing performance against Norway. Bukayo Saka was more lively off the bench, so Tuchel may opt to start Saka or keep him as an impact substitute.
Disciplinary and Injury News
England have no suspension concerns for the semi-final, as Jude Bellingham, O'Reilly, Guehi, and Rice avoided yellow cards against Norway. However, Jarell Quansah is serving the second match of a two-game ban for his red card against Mexico. Jordan Henderson is out for the remainder of the tournament with a broken wrist but remains with the squad in a cast.
Predicted Lineup and Match Details
England's predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Pickford; James, Konsa, Guehi, O'Reilly; Anderson, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane. The match kicks off at 8pm BST on Wednesday July 15, 2026, at Atlanta Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.
