England will face DR Congo in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Atlanta Stadium.
The Three Lions will be fully aware that there are no easy games in the knockout stage. Recent upsets have already shaken the tournament, with European powerhouses Germany and the Netherlands crashing out earlier than expected. Those results serve as a warning that reputation alone will not guarantee progression.
England Team News
England have enjoyed a solid World Cup campaign so far. Drawn into Group L, Thomas Tuchel’s side finished at the top of the standings with two wins and one draw, securing their place in the knockout rounds without major difficulties.
However, their performances have not been flawless. England’s 0-0 draw against Ghana highlighted a recurring issue when facing teams that sit deep and defend in numbers. The Three Lions struggled to create clear-cut chances and often found it difficult to break through a well-organized defensive setup. They could face a similar challenge against DR Congo.
Tuchel also has a few fitness concerns ahead of the match. Reece James and Jarell Quansah have both been dealing with injuries, although the England manager remains hopeful that Quansah will be fit enough to feature.
DR Congo Team News
DR Congo’s journey to the knockout stage was far from straightforward. After drawing with Portugal and losing to Colombia, their hopes of qualification were hanging by a thread. However, a vital victory over Uzbekistan in their final group match secured a place in the Round of 32 as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.
The Leopards have earned a reputation as a difficult team to break down. They conceded just three goals during the group stage and have shown great discipline and organization at the back. Their defensive unit also includes several players with extensive experience in English football, including Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Axel Tuanzebe, Chancel Mbemba, and Arthur Masuaku.
That familiarity with English players and playing styles could prove valuable as they prepare to take on one of the tournament favorites.
Unlike England, DR Congo have no significant injury concerns and are expected to have a full squad available for this important fixture.
Predicted Lineups
England: Pickford (GK); Spence, Konsa, Guehi, O’Reilly; Anderson, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Rashford; Kane.
DR Congo: Mpasi-Nzau (GK); Wan-Bissaka, Tuanzebe, Mbemba, Kapuadi, Masuaku; Moutoussamy, Sadiki, Kayembe; Wissa, Bakambu.
Score Prediction
This match has all the ingredients of a tough knockout battle. DR Congo are unlikely to give England much space and will look to frustrate their opponents with a compact defensive shape and physical approach.
England, meanwhile, have the quality to control possession and create chances, but patience will be key. If Tuchel’s side can move the ball quickly and stretch the Congolese defense, opportunities should eventually appear.
While DR Congo have shown enough resilience to make this a competitive contest, England’s greater depth, attacking talent, and experience at the highest level should give them the edge.
It may not be a spectacular performance, but the Three Lions are expected to do enough to secure their place in the next round.
Predicted Score: England 1-0 DR Congo.
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