Declan Rice believes England have set the standard with their opening World Cup win over Croatia and insists the Three Lions have the quality and depth to defeat any opponent in the tournament.

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England midfielder Declan Rice has expressed confidence in the Three Lions’ ability to challenge for the FIFA World Cup 2026 title, saying the squad has the quality to overcome any team in world football. Following England’s impressive 4-2 victory over Croatia in their opening group-stage match, Rice believes the performance demonstrated the level required to compete for the biggest prize in the sport.

England made a strong start to their World Cup campaign in Dallas, defeating a Croatia side that had reached the final and semi-final of the previous two World Cups. Goals from captain Harry Kane and midfield star Jude Bellingham helped England establish control, while Marcus Rashford’s impactful appearance from the bench highlighted the depth available to head coach Thomas Tuchel.

Speaking ahead of England’s second Group-stage fixture against Ghana, Rice described the team’s second-half display against Croatia as the benchmark for the remainder of the tournament.

“We know as players the level that’s required. If we can perform like that from the first minute and maintain that intensity throughout matches, we believe we can beat any opponent in the world,” Rice said.

The Arsenal midfielder also dismissed concerns about fatigue after being substituted during the Croatia match. Having featured extensively for both club and country this season, Rice insisted he remains physically and mentally prepared for the challenges ahead.

“My body has been conditioned for long seasons and high-pressure moments. This season has probably been more mentally demanding than physically, but I feel in a really good place right now and I’m ready to help the team until the end of the tournament,” he added.

Meanwhile, England have received a major boost with Bukayo Saka nearing full fitness. The winger missed the starting lineup against Croatia due to an Achilles issue, but Tuchel confirmed that the Arsenal star is available for selection against Ghana.

“Bukayo is moving freely, feels no pain, and has trained at the highest level over the last two days. He’s ready to play,” Tuchel said, while declining to reveal whether Saka would start or come off the bench.

England enter the tournament carrying high expectations despite not winning a major international trophy since the 1966 World Cup. Under former manager Gareth Southgate, the team reached two European Championship finals, a World Cup semi-final, and a quarter-final, laying the foundation for future success.

Tuchel believes his squad has the experience and mentality needed to handle the pressure that has often affected previous England generations. According to the German coach, the current group includes several proven winners capable of thriving under intense expectations.

A victory over Ghana would secure England’s place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 and further strengthen their credentials as one of the tournament favourites.