Overview
- England opened Group L with a 4-2 win over Croatia in which Harry Kane scored twice and Rice was withdrawn late as a precaution after feeling discomfort.
- Rice has revealed he has managed neural hamstring pain since early in the year but issued positive fitness updates, saying he feels mentally strong and physically ready to continue in the tournament.
- A 0-0 draw with Ghana left England’s qualification and group-top spot unresolved and made the final match against Panama decisive for securing first place.
- Former players and pundits including Jamie Carragher publicly urged Tuchel not to rest Rice, increasing pressure on the manager’s selection choices given Rice’s central role.
- Rice praised captain Harry Kane’s leadership as a motivating force inside the camp and urged fans to stay positive while England look to finish the group stage strongly.