Rice was replaced by John Stones in the closing stages, prompting concern ahead of England’s next fixture. However, the Arsenal midfielder linked the problem to the demands of a hot, physical contest.
“It's what happens when you play in 30-degree heat I suppose,” Rice said. “Tough game. Give it everything and bodies been through a lot in that match. Time to recover and go again.”
Asked directly about his fitness, Rice added: “I'm fine. Good as gold.”
That assessment is encouraging for England, although the team’s medical staff will still determine whether he is ready to start against Mexico. Rice remains central to the balance of the midfield, offering defensive cover and the ability to drive the team forward.
Elsewhere, Belgium completed one of the tournament’s most dramatic recoveries by defeating Senegal 3-2 after extra time.
Senegal appeared destined to progress after taking a 2-0 lead through Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr. Belgium’s comeback began when Romelu Lukaku pulled one back late on, before Leandro Trossard equalised in the final minute of normal time.
The decisive moment arrived in extra time after a VAR review awarded Belgium a penalty. Youri Tielemans converted to complete a remarkable turnaround and send Belgium through.
The next fixture attracting attention is United States versus Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the hosts strongly favoured in the match market.
In the qualifying market, the USA are listed at 2/15, while Bosnia and Herzegovina are priced at 19/4.
The next major storyline will be Rice’s involvement against Mexico, while Belgium’s resilience and the USA’s ability to meet expectations will shape the wider tournament narrative.