During England’s 2-1 win over the Democratic Republic of the Congo, late substitute Declan Rice was seen icing his quadriceps, putting his participation in the Round of 16 match against Mexico in doubt.
Declan Rice was sent off against Democratic Republic of Congo
England star Declan Rice insisted he was “as good as gold” despite having to be substituted in the embers of a 2-1 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo. Rice, 27, limped on as a substitute for John Stones moments after Harry Kane scored Atlanta’s second goal to complete a comeback.
The Arsenal star missed England’s last game against Panama with a calf injury and is also battling back problems and a hamstring problem. However, Rice should be available for Monday’s Round of 16 match against co-host Mexico.
“I guess that’s what happens when you play in 30-degree heat,” Rice said on BBC Radio 5 Live. “Tough game. I gave it my all and that game was hard on my body. It’s time to recover and fight again.”
The midfielder then confirmed: “I’m fine. Good as gold.”
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It was a really tough game for England. It was reversed in the seventh minute after Brian Shipenga beat Jordan Pickford at the near post. The Three Lions erupted in celebration and Kane eventually overturned the tie with goals in the 75th and 86th minutes.
Rice was moved to right-back before England’s return, with Jed Spence enduring a tough time against Shipenga. If Reece James remains sidelined with injury, manager Thomas Tuchel may be inclined to keep the 27-year-old in defence.
“This is a knockout game,” Rice continued. “They have come through a tough group, but it hasn’t been easy. As a neutral and as a player, you can never underestimate them because they have quality and they can be hurt at any time and they were.
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Declan Rice feels ‘good as gold’ (Image: Eddie Keogh – The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
“But other than that, I think we had so many chances. Their goalkeeper, credit to him, he was an absolute world-class player.”
“Harry Kane, of course, scored the goal. It was a deserved win, but we worked harder than we should have. What matters is the knockout that we win and that’s what we did.”
The England squad has earned a trip to Mexico City and will play at the iconic Estadio Azteca. The stadium is located 2,240 meters above sea level and Mexico has never lost a World Cup match here.
In 89 games played at the Estadio Azteca, they have lost only two games. England will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of Brazil and Argentina and become the third conqueror.
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