England can beat any opponent at World Cup, says Rice

Declan Rice believes England has the capability to defeat any team in the World Cup, setting a high standard after their commanding 4-2 win against Croatia. The midfielder highlighted the team's second-half performance as a benchmark, asserting that starting with such intensity from the opening minute, combined with their depth of talent, makes them formidable.

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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, who played a crucial role in Arsenal's Premier League title win, addressed concerns about his own fitness after a demanding season. He stated that his body is conditioned for such demands and that the mental aspect of the season was more challenging than the physical. He feels in a good mental and physical space to continue performing throughout the tournament.

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My body has been conditioned and built for these moments, for playing long seasons.

Meanwhile, teammate Bukayo Saka is reportedly injury-free and ready to play. Coach Thomas Tuchel confirmed that the winger has recovered from an Achilles injury and is moving without pain. Saka participated fully in recent training sessions, making him available for the upcoming match against Ghana, though his starting status remains undecided.

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Bukayo is getting better and better, he’s more and more free in his movements, he feels no more pain.

England is aiming to end a 60-year World Cup drought, having come close in recent major tournaments, including reaching the finals of the last two Euros. The team's strong start against Croatia, with goals from Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, and a notable contribution from Marcus Rashford, suggests a promising campaign.

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He was able to do both our training sessions the last two days on highest level, so he’s ready to go, without telling you if he will start or come from the bench.