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England Confirms Declan Rice Starts vs Congo

6/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

England manager Julian Tuchel announced Declan Rice will start in the World Cup round-of-16 match against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Rice missed the 2-0 Panama win after a heavy calf blow in the goalless Ghana draw.
He returned for the final training session before the squad travelled to New Jersey, raising optimism about his fitness.
Tuchel said Rice feels “free” and must play with intensity for the Atlanta round-of-16.

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Story summary

England manager Julian Tuchel announced Declan Rice will start in the World Cup round-of-16 match against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Rice missed the 2-0 Panama win after a heavy calf blow in the goalless Ghana draw.
He returned for the final training session before the squad travelled to New Jersey, raising optimism about his fitness.
Tuchel said Rice feels “free” and must play with intensity for the Atlanta round-of-16.