Declan Rice Set to Return as England Prepare for Argentina and Messi Showdown

England have received a timely boost before their World Cup 2026 semi-final against Argentina, with Declan Rice expected to be ready to start after illness disrupted his preparation.

Rice hands Tuchel a major semi-final boost

Thomas Tuchel is set to welcome Rice back into his starting plans for England’s high-pressure meeting with Argentina. The Arsenal midfielder had been a fitness concern after reportedly spending three days in bed with a suspected food poisoning issue.

Rice played only 45 minutes in England’s win over Norway, leaving questions over whether he would be physically ready for the next step. However, the midfielder has told England’s medical staff that he expects to be fit enough for the Argentina clash.

Why Rice matters so much against Argentina

Against Argentina, England will need control, discipline and defensive protection in central areas. Rice gives Tuchel exactly that: ball-winning, recovery runs, aerial strength and the ability to keep England compact when the game becomes stretched.

His return also allows England’s more attacking players to operate with greater freedom. In a semi-final where transitions and second balls may decide the rhythm, Rice’s presence could be one of England’s biggest tactical advantages.

Bellingham also expected to be available

Jude Bellingham is also expected to feature despite attention around his shoulder. Argentine media highlighted images of the England star holding his upper arm during the 2-1 victory over Norway, but Bellingham has not viewed the issue as something that should reduce his impact.

That is another encouraging sign for England. Bellingham’s ability to break lines, arrive in the box and carry pressure in big moments gives Tuchel a match-winner who can change the semi-final even if Argentina dominate spells of possession.

Pickford relishing the Messi challenge

Jordan Pickford has also embraced the occasion. The Everton goalkeeper said facing Argentina carries a special meaning because he remembers watching England play Argentina in 2002 as a child at school. Now, more than two decades later, he is preparing for a World Cup meeting with Lionel Messi.

Pickford praised Messi’s extraordinary career, but he also made it clear that England cannot focus on one player alone. Argentina remain the defending champions and one of the most complete teams in the tournament, with threats across the pitch.

England ready for every scenario

Messi has already scored eight goals at World Cup 2026, making him the obvious headline threat. But Pickford stressed that England have studied Argentina’s strengths and weaknesses, and believe their own squad has the resilience, unity and fighting spirit required to compete.

The message from England is clear: whether the semi-final lasts 90 minutes, goes to extra time or ends in a penalty shootout, they believe they are prepared. With Rice nearing a return, Bellingham expected to play and Pickford relishing the challenge, England will enter the Argentina clash with confidence — but also with full respect for the reigning world champions.

Source: Rewritten and adapted from 24h.com.vn’s report on England’s World Cup 2026 semi-final build-up. Images credited to 24h.com.vn.