England started their Nations League campaign with a comfortable 2-0 win over Ireland at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.
The match was largely focused on Declan Rice and Jack Grealish, given they had represented Ireland earlier in their careers.
Rice produced one of his best international performances. He opened the scoring in the 11th minute.
The Arsenal midfielder then turned creator for Grealish to double the lead in the 26th minute.
There were no surprises that he was handed the man of the match for his superb all-round showing.
Aside from his goal and assist, Rice had 106 touches in the game with a 94% pass completion rate.
The 25-year-old won 100% of his take-ons and aerial duels alongside five out of seven ground duels.
Rice also created three chances while making six recoveries and two clearances.
It was almost a perfect performance from the Gunners ace and here is how the national media reacted.
“A goal and an assist at the Aviva Stadium, where he appeared as an Ireland player in June 2018. He didn’t celebrate his goal, but the midfielder will have been delighted with his performance” – The Telegraph.
“The best player on the pitch and full of authority in controlling central areas while progressing England further forwards. Scored the opening goal – of course – and then set up the second for Grealish with a surging run” – The Independent.
“A brilliant finish and set the tone for England throughout. Enjoyed more licence to get forward and also provided the assist for Grealish’s goal” – The Guardian.
“Scored one goal, made the second and was generally superb in a box-to-box role. Rose to a hostile challenge” – Standard Sport.
Rice played in a box-to-box midfield role for the Three Lions. His runs were focused on the right flank, combining well with teammate Bukayo Saka.
It was a lovely bit of exchange between Saka and Rice in the lead-up to Grealish’s goal.
The West Ham United graduate has not been at his best for the Gunners at the start of the season. He was recently sent off against Brighton & Hove Albion.
His performance with England should boost his confidence going forward and it should only benefit the Gunners in their quest for the Premier League crown.
Rice will most likely start in Tuesday’s Nations League game against Finland. He won’t be available for the north London derby on Sunday due to suspension.
