England hit with injury scare with star player spotted in agony after full time

England may be without one of their key players against Mexico after they were seen nursing an injury following the win over DR Congo.

On Wednesday night, England survived an early scare from DR Congo to book their place in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup.

A goal from DR Congo forward Brian Cipenga in the 7th minute put the African side ahead early in the match, with England relying on captain Kane to come back with goals in the 75th and 86th minute to win the match 2-1.

England will now face co-hosts Mexico in a round of 16 match at 1am BST on Monday, July 6 at the famous Estadio Azteca.

But they may have to do so without one key player, as worrying images of Declan Rice icing his hamstring at the end of the match have emerged online.

The Arsenal star has been vital for England in their World Cup campaign so far, with his performance against DR Congo arguably his most important yet.

When England manager Thomas Tuchel made perhaps the most important decision of the game in taking off a struggling Djed Spence, Rice move to right-back in order to allow Eberechi Eze to come into England's midfield.

Both Eze and Rice excelled in their new roles, helping to secure England's place in the second knockout round.

In light of this, many fans have suggested that, should both Reece James and Jarell Quansah remain out injured, Rice should start at right-back for the Mexico clash, allowing either Eze or Morgan Rogers to start in midfield.

READ MORE: England star singled out for 'giving up' against DR Congo

However, after the Arsenal midfielder was taken off in the final minutes and later seen icing his injury on the bench, Tuchel may be forced to once again start Spence at right-back, while also ensuring Bellingham picks up more defensive duties.

England player did not change into kit despite being named on bench vs DR Congo

Thankfully, England could have Quansah ready to return to the starting lineup on Monday, after the Bayer Leverkusen star was named on the bench for the DR Congo match.

Quansah injured his ankle after starting in the 2-0 win over Panama in New Jersey last weekend.

He was taken off due to the issue and Tuchel later confirmed that he wouldn't quite be ready to play in the Round of 32 match.

"They are getting closer and closer. Jarell is a little bit ahead of Reecey," Tuchel said.

"The race was close to even make it in the match squad for this time. We need to make sure we have more matches, that is the main focus, and then they will be available very soon."

It therefore came as a surprise when the 23-year-old was named on the bench against DR Congo.

But, he never got changed and watched the game on the bench alongside fellow injured defender, James.

Regardless, the fact that he was even included in the squad is a promising sign and his return could come at the perfect time should Rice be sidelined against Mexico.