England 'can beat any opponent' at 2026 World Cup, says Declan Rice

England 'can beat any opponent' at 2026 World Cup, says Declan Rice

English football player Declan Rice has made a bold statement after his team, the Three Lions, beat Croatia 4-2 in the 2026 World Cup. Rice, a midfielder for Arsenal, said that if his team can start games at their best, they can beat any opponent in the world.

Rice made these comments following a 63rd match of his campaign for both club and country. Some concerns were raised about his performance, but Rice dismissed suggestions that he is running out of steam. He pointed out that his body is 'conditioned and built for these moments,' having played through long seasons. According to Rice, this season has been 'mentally tougher than physically' due to the emotions of a football player.

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England 's captain, Harry Kane, netted to kick-start his tournament, while midfielder Jude Bellingham also scored crucial goals. A cameo appearance by Marcus Rashford showcased the strength in depth of the England squad. Rice's performance, despite some defensive issues, set a benchmark for his team, and he believes they can replicate this from the opening minute of every game.

The German coach of England, Thomas Tuchel, praised the performance of his team in the match against Croatia. He also confirmed that Bukayo Saka, an Arsenal winger who is nursing an Achilles injury, is fit and ready to face Ghana in their next match.

According to Tuchel, Saka is 'getting better and better,' feeling 'no more pain' in his movements. The coach added that Saka has been training at 'the highest level' for the past two days, so he is ready to play. England will face Ghana in their next match, and a victory will guarantee their place in the last 32.

England has not won any major tournament since the 1966 World Cup. Despite coming close with Gareth Southgate, England's new coach Thomas Tuchel believes his team can handle the pressure and expectations. He emphasized that his squad includes many winners and experienced players who can cope with the weight of expectation.

'We believe that if we can do that from the opening minute, with the players that we also have to come on and finish the game, we can beat any opponent in the world,' Rice said.

Tuchel also commented on the pressure and expectations his team faces. He said, 'There are emotions involved and you can at some point feel the tension and feel the pressure. I hope we can cope with it, accept it and turn it around.' The German coach believes his squad can manage the pressure and excel in the tournament.

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England's recent performance showcases their strength in depth and their ability to start games strongly. With Rice's confidence in his team's abilities and Tuchel's guidance, England is looking strong to take on the next opponents in the tournament.

England 's recent performance showcases their strength in depth and their ability to start games strongly. With Rice's confidence in his team's abilities and Tuchel's guidance, England is looking strong to take on the next opponents in the tournament.