As the Three Lions prepare to face Croatia in their opening 2026 World Cup fixture tonight, a palpable mix of anticipation and historical weight hangs in the air. The memory of the 2018 semi-final defeat, which dashed England’s hopes of a first final appearance since 1966, is likely to amplify the pressure. In moments like these, players often turn to familiar routines, and midfielder Declan Rice is no exception, relying on a specific pair of trainers he believes are crucial for success.
Footballers are widely known for their superstitions, with many adhering to strict pre-match habits. For Rice, a particular pair of black trainers holds significant importance. He has previously shared that he feels a win is unlikely if he doesn’t wear them, admitting to being “proper superstitious” about this ritual.
A Winning Diet
Beyond his footwear, Rice also adheres to a consistent pre-match meal: four pancakes served with syrup or honey. This dietary choice was guided by the nutritionist at his Premier League club, Arsenal. Rice ed his surprise at how many other players have adopted a similar meal, noting its significant positive impact on his energy levels.
“Honestly, it’s been a game-changer. I don’t understand the science behind it, what’s in them or anything like that, but it gives me such a high energy boost,” Rice stated, highlighting the practical benefits of his simple yet effective meal.
Squad Preparations and Challenges
The England squad has been acclimatizing in the United States for over two weeks in preparation for the tournament. However, the team faced a setback with Tino Livramento being ruled out due to a calf injury, leading to Trevoh Chalobah being called up as a replacement.
Manager Thomas Tuchel has reportedly kept his starting lineup choices close to his chest, with four positions still open for contention just hours before kick-off. Approximately 10,000 England supporters are expected to be in attendance at the match in Dallas, Texas, cheering on their team in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter.
With the tournament underway, the team will be looking for every possible advantage, and for Declan Rice, that includes the unwavering belief that his lucky trainers and a stack of pancakes might just be the key to securing victory.
