Rice's Set-Piece Confidence Soars After England's Opening Win
Declan Rice has declared that he feels like he will get an assist "every time" he steps up to take a corner, urging England fans to be "excited" for what's to come at the World Cup. The midfielder's comments come after a dominant 4-2 victory over Croatia in the Three Lions' opening Group D match, where set-pieces proved decisive.
Rice played a key role in the win, with his deliveries causing constant problems. Harry Kane's opening penalty was earned after Noni Madueke was fouled following a Rice cross, and the England captain headed home his second from a pinpoint corner by the Arsenal man.
From Arsenal's Corner King to England's Secret Weapon
Rice's transformation into a set-piece specialist began at Arsenal in January 2024. After a mid-season training camp in Dubai, manager Mikel Arteta and set-piece coach Nicolas Jover identified something unique in his delivery. "I wouldn't ever take corners or set-pieces, but Nico and the manager saw something in me that others didn't," Rice told BBC Sport. "They said that I can put balls in areas from a dead ball that no-one else can in the team other than Bukayo Saka."
The Gunners went on to score a record 19 goals from corners in the Premier League last season, helping them secure their first title in 22 years. Despite criticism over Arsenal's perceived set-piece reliance—they scored 25 goals from dead-ball situations overall—Rice believes the narrative has shifted. "Everyone's enjoying [set-pieces] now, aren't they?" he said with a smile.
That confidence has seamlessly transferred to the international stage. "As time has gone on I feel like now every time I put down a ball for a set-piece – whether it's a corner or a wide free-kick – I feel like I'm going to get an assist or make something happen that's dangerous. That's a good mentality to have... and England fans can be excited."
Tuchel's Set-Piece Blueprint for England
Under Thomas Tuchel, who took charge in January 2025, England have worked meticulously on set-pieces. While training time is limited in camp, the patterns have been embedded for over a year. "We only get a small amount of time here to work on them because we have to work on loads of other stuff," Rice explained. "But this has been going on in the lead-up for the past year, so the lads know what's coming… where I'm going to deliver the ball."
Tuchel, known for his tactical detail, has sought to replicate the intensity of the Premier League's set-piece culture. With Rice's consistent delivery and an array of aerial threats in the squad, England look primed to exploit dead-ball situations throughout the tournament.
Reece James: Fitness Questions 'Boring'
Another weapon from set-pieces, Reece James, also spoke about his return to fitness. The Chelsea right-back, making his World Cup debut as first choice, has endured multiple injury setbacks but managed 39 appearances across all competitions this season. Reflecting on persistent questions about his durability, James said: "It gets boring when people speak about my fitness. I'm here, I'm fit, and I'm ready to help this team."
Key Takeaways
- Declan Rice has transformed into one of the world's most dangerous set-piece takers, bringing his Arsenal form to the World Cup.
- England's 4-2 win over Croatia highlighted their set-piece threat, with both Harry Kane goals originating from Rice deliveries.
- Thomas Tuchel has implemented a long-term set-piece strategy, with players well-drilled in movements and deliveries.
- Reece James is fit and resolute despite ongoing fitness chatter, providing another set-piece option for England.
- The Three Lions' set-piece prowess could be a defining factor in their quest for World Cup glory.
Quick Facts
Rice's 2025-26 Arsenal record: 19 goals from corners in the Premier League – a league record.
Arsenal total set-play goals: 25 in all competitions.
Rice England caps: 74
England's next game: Group D fixture to be confirmed.
Credits: Quotes via BBC Sport.
