Rice's comeback could steadify England's defence ahead of DR Congo

England’s defence will gain a boost on Wednesday as Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice returns for the World Cup last‑32 tie against DR Congo, with the match set for 17:00 BST in Atlanta. The selection follows a 2‑0 victory over Panama in which England allowed 13 shots. Thomas Tuchel began the World Cup with Ezri Konsa and John Stones as his central defensive pair against Croatia, but has since switched to Konsa and Marc Guehi for the past two matches. Stones, who only started five Premier League games last season before leaving Manchester City, has not featured since. England’s defence appeared vulnerable in Saturday’s 2‑0 win over Panama, conceding 13 attempts on goal. Panama’s late consolation saw Jose Fajardo narrowly ruled out for offside. Tuchel said, “We wanted to win the group,” and added, “There is no substitute for wins and we have that feeling again.” He noted that there are three days to prepare the match in Atlanta and that “the tournament starts new again.”

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He described the competition as three chapters, saying, “We had the first chapter in prep camp, the second chapter in the group, and the third chapter is coming.” The coach’s upbeat tone contrasted with the mixed performance against Panama. Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers were the positive selections against Panama, ahead of the more conservative option of Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo, but the choices sometimes left England too open. The midfield trio’s configuration was criticised for exposing defensive gaps. The expected return of Declan Rice for the last‑32 tie against DR Congo on Wednesday at 17:00 BST is seen as a world‑class shield for the defence. Rice’s presence alone should give Tuchel and his teammates reassurance ahead of the knockout stage. England will aim to tighten their back line in Atlanta as they seek to progress beyond the group stage. The upcoming match against DR Congo will test whether Rice’s return stabilises the side.