“It’s a great feeling to play at this beautiful stadium,” said Harry Maguire after making his long-awaited return to the England national team in a 1-1 draw against Uruguay at Wembley on March 28, 2026. This match marked Maguire’s first appearance for England since September 2024, a gap of 566 days, and he completed the full 90 minutes, showcasing his resilience and commitment on the pitch.
During the match, Maguire took over the captain’s armband in the second half following Jordan Henderson’s withdrawal. His leadership was evident as he praised the influence of head coach Michael Carrick on his return to the squad, stating, “The form of the team and myself has improved since we changed formation.” This tactical shift seems to have reinvigorated both Maguire and the team as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
England initially took the lead with a goal from Ben White, who found the net in the first half. However, the match took a dramatic turn when Uruguay equalized in stoppage time through a penalty converted by Federico Valverde. This late goal denied England a victory and left the match ending in a draw.
In a lighter moment during the post-match comments, Maguire joked about Uruguay’s Manuel Ugarte, who received two yellow cards during the game, one of which was later rescinded. “We’ve been told Ugarte was shown two yellow cards and the second one was rescinded, which is new one on us,” he quipped, adding a touch of humor to the tense atmosphere following the match.
Maguire’s performance was described as consistent and impactful, reinforcing his position as a key player for England. With this match, he has now made 65 appearances for the national team, a testament to his enduring presence in international football.
As England continues its preparations for the World Cup, the team will host Japan in another friendly match, where fans will be eager to see if Maguire can maintain his form and leadership on the field. The upcoming match will be crucial for the squad as they look to solidify their strategies and team dynamics ahead of the tournament.
With a blend of experience and youthful energy, England aims to build on this draw against Uruguay. The team’s next steps will be closely watched as they gear up for the World Cup, with Maguire expected to play a pivotal role in their campaign.