Declan Rice kicks opponent in the face during Mexico vs England

Declan Rice connected on the face of a Mexico player with his boot.

The Last 16 FIFA World Cup 2026 showdown at the Azteca in Mexico City, Mexico, got off to a ferocious start.

Declan Rice kicks Mexico player in the face

Of all the venues on the planet, very few are quite as intimidating as the Azteca. At 7220 feet above sea level, the altitude is a nightmare for almost any side that dares travel there, with going into this evening, only two teams having ever emerged victorious against Mexico at the stadium.

However, England is determined to write history.

‘The Three Lions’ came out with a point to prove. Alas, Declan Rice let his enthusiasm get the better of him with an outrageous challenge.

Just one minute into the match, the Arsenal star charged in with his boot high in the air, connecting right on the face of Luis Romo, who collapsed towards the ground.

Following the foul, the referee opted to give Rice a yellow card.

Fans were quick to head to social media to voice their opinions on the matter.

One mocking the analysis, raged: “The commentator said ‘He had every right to go for it’, as Declan Rice kicks the Mexican player in the head.”

Another added: “Declan Rice just connected his spikes to a Mexican player’s face and only got a yellow. Shut up about Folarin Balogun decision hurting the game.”

Featured Image Credit: Getty