England faces Argentina in World Cup semi-final as squad issues ease

By Ngozi Eze — 16 July 2026 — 4 min read

England faced Argentina in the World Cup semi-final with a nearly full squad, despite earlier fitness concerns. Midfielder Declan Rice was deemed fit and available to start the crucial match. The team’s manager, Thomas Tuchel, saw his squad’s injury, illness, and fatigue problems significantly reduce following their demanding victory over Norway.

Rice had been battling a stomach issue after the round of 16 game in Mexico City, which had kept him confined to bed for three days leading up to the quarter-final against Norway. Due to this, the FA doctors limited him to 45 minutes of play in Miami, where the heat and humidity were particularly challenging. Tuchel noted that Rice appeared drained after the extra-time win against Norway, although the player had expressed a desire to continue beyond half-time.

Tuchel explained his decision to substitute Rice, stating, “We knew that Declan was struggling. He gave a green light to continue maybe until the next water break, but then I thought if we go 120 and I don’t have Elliot [Anderson] on the field, we will get into trouble with substitutions later.” He added that the decision to take Rice off was difficult but paid off, allowing Anderson to play the full 120 minutes.

Despite the previous struggles, Rice reportedly made a full recovery and participated in a complete training session in Kansas City. This session was the first full team practice after the Norway match, which was held behind closed doors. His recovery meant there were no longer any doubts about his ability to start against the reigning world champions, Argentina.

Squad Fitness Updates

Beyond Rice, several other England players experienced cramp and extreme fatigue after the game against Norway. However, the FA medics and physios implemented an extensive rehabilitation program in the two days that followed. As a result, Tuchel had nearly a complete squad to choose from for the semi-final. The only exceptions were the suspended Jarell Quansah and Jordan Henderson, who was sidelined with a broken wrist.

Another player who overcame fitness concerns was Nico O’Reilly. Despite picking up a hamstring problem against Norway, O’Reilly was expected to be available for selection. He had gestured to the bench for a substitution in the second half of the Norway match and was replaced by Djed Spence before extra-time began. However, it was understood that he had not suffered any major strain.

O’Reilly spoke to reporters before the Argentina match, expressing his excitement: “It’s crazy, an unbelievable feeling. I can’t wait for the game. Not a lot of people get to that position [of a semi-final] – I’m gonna relish it and take it all in. I’ve always dreamt of this.” He also mentioned achieving his dream of being in the World Cup squad and the Manchester City team.

Several other players, including Harry Kane, Elliot Anderson, Marc Guehi, and John Stones, played the full 120 minutes against Norway and were being monitored for their recovery from the intense heat and humidity in Miami. Guehi had missed some training sessions before the Norway match due to a hamstring tweak, and Stones had only played a total of 35 minutes in the tournament prior to that game.

Semi-final Outcome

In the semi-final clash, England ultimately suffered a 2-1 defeat to Argentina, ending their hopes of reaching the World Cup final. Declan Rice started in midfield for Tuchel’s side and played for 82 minutes at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. He was instrumental in creating England’s opening goal in the 55th minute, providing the pass that released Morgan Rogers, whose delivery was then converted by Anthony Gordon.

England maintained their lead until Rice was replaced by Nico O’Reilly. However, Argentina mounted a late comeback. Enzo Fernández equalized with a powerful strike from outside the penalty area in the 85th minute. The decisive goal came in added time when Lautaro Martínez headed in Lionel Messi’s cross, securing Argentina’s place in the final against Spain.

The Associated Press match report confirmed Rice’s withdrawal in the 82nd minute and Argentina’s two late goals. Despite the loss, England’s tournament was not entirely over, as they were scheduled to face France in Saturday’s third-place play-off.

Other Arsenal players, including Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke, and Eberechi Eze, were named among England’s substitutes for the semi-final but did not enter the match. Madueke had lost his starting position after featuring against Norway, while Saka remained on the bench despite his return from an Achilles problem earlier in the tournament. Eze also remained unused after playing a supporting role in England’s journey to the last four. All four Arsenal players were available for the semi-final after Rice’s recovery from illness.

Source: skysports.com