Saka, Rashford start as Rice rested for England at World Cup
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At a glance
- Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford will start for England in their final World Cup group match against Panama.
- Declan Rice is rested, and five changes are made to the lineup as England aims to secure top spot in Group L.
- England has already qualified for the knockout stage but needs to match Ghana's result to finish first.
England's attacking duo Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford are set to make their first starts of the World Cup in the team's final Group L fixture against Panama on Saturday. Coach Thomas Tuchel has opted to field a strong lineup, including the promising young forwards, as England seeks to clinch first place in the group.
Midfielder Declan Rice has been rested for the match, one of five alterations to the squad that drew 0-0 with Ghana in their previous outing. Rice, who had strapping on his left calf, will miss a potential last-32 tie if he receives a booking against Panama. Other players making way include Anthony Gordon, Djed Spence, and Noni Madueke.
Nico OโReilly returns at left-back, while Morgan Rogers and Jarell Quansah are also handed their first starts of the tournament. Quansah steps in to replace the injured Reece James on the right side of England's defense. While England has already secured its place in the knockout phase, the team must match Ghana's result against Croatia to guarantee finishing at the top of their group. The group winners will advance to Atlanta to face a third-place finisher on July 1.
Originally published by Vanguard. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.