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Harry Kane and Declan Rice cleared for Ghana clash after injury concerns following Croatia win
Arjun Pillai | June 19, 2026 10:15 AM CST

England manager Thomas Tuchel faced a brief scare over his key players after the team’s opening World Cup 2026 triumph, but both Harry Kane and Declan Rice have now been declared fit to play against Ghana on Tuesday.

The England captain and the Arsenal midfielder were both assessed following Wednesday’s 4-2 victory over Croatia in their Group L opener at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Rice was substituted after 72 minutes, with Morgan Rogers coming on in his place. The midfielder had reported some discomfort and was taken off as a precautionary measure.

Kane, who scored twice and completed the full match, was later seen with strapping around his left leg as he met his family and friends inside the AT&T Stadium. The strapping was applied to manage minor cramp rather than any significant injury.

Both players are expected to resume full training in Kansas City towards the end of the week as England prepare for their second group fixture against Ghana at the Boston Stadium. Tuchel anticipates having both available for selection.

Rice, who plays for Arsenal, created Kane’s second goal against Croatia by delivering a precise right-footed corner that the Bayern Munich striker headed powerfully into the net.

Speaking about Rice’s condition after the game, Tuchel explained: “Declan pointed to his lower back and upper hamstring and said he felt some discomfort. I didn’t want to take any risks, so we decided to protect him. Declan reassured me afterwards that he’s fine and there’s nothing major to worry about.”

England will now look to build on their strong start to the tournament as they head into their next group encounter with confidence that their captain and midfield anchor are fully fit.


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