England secured their place in the Euro 2024 semi-finals after beating Switzerland on penalties, and Declan Rice was outstanding.
Arsenal star Bukayo Saka was the clear player of the match, with his stunning strike capping off a complete display from right wing-back, but Rice was crucial in the midfield.
Rice showed his class by consoling Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji at full time, after the Switzerland star missed his penalty in the shootout after a 1-1 draw, and he also impressed on the pitch in the game.
The 25-year-old came up against Granit Xhaka in midfield, and both players performed superbly, but Arsenal fans have praised Rice for the quality he showed, which saw him assist Saka’s superb goal.
Arsenal fans praise Declan Rice after England beat Switzerland
England endured another tough game as Switzerland piled pressure on Gareth Southgate’s side, but Arsenal fans have praised Rice for the way in which he stepped up to show his quality.
“When the going gets tough, when things aren’t clicking you need your top mental guys to step up. Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka- they win their five yards and they keep you in it,” one fan posted on X.
“When it’s time to drop your flowers, don’t forget Declan Rice on your list. The papers won’t give him any honors, the critics won’t savour him with praise. But those of us who saw him tonight saw how much of a monster he was in key moments. An absolute pest,” another posted.
“Declan Rice is phenomenal unbelievable once again,” one Arsenal fan stated.
“People don’t know how good Declan Rice is and will be,” one stated in response to recent criticism.
Some pointed out Rice’s stunning long-range shot which was denied by Yann Sommer, as the Arsenal star could not have hit it any better.
“One of the saves of the tournament by Sommer, goodness, Rice got robbed,” one fan pointed out.
“It was a great play by Declan Rice but nice save by Yann Sommer,” another added.
Declan Rice was outstanding for England against Switzerland
Rice completed 92 of his 93 passes, and this was more than anyone on the pitch. The Arsenal record signing was a monster in the middle of the park, and despite Switzerland enjoying some joy in their counter-attacks, they could hardly get past Rice.
The Englishman was criticised at times during the tournament, and was encouraged to push higher up the pitch before this quarter-final.
He contributed in both defence and attack, and Rice performed at the level he has shown for Arsenal all season.
It was a game in which Saka and Rice answered their critics, and wrote themselves into England history with their performances.
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