Three Lions Face Historic DR Congo
England begin the knockout phase of the tournament tonight when they meet DR Congo in Atlanta in the last 32. Thomas Tuchel’s side progressed as Group L winners, while DR Congo earned their place after finishing as the highest-ranked third-placed team. Which team will advance to the next round?
Match Preview
England have reached the knockout rounds without suffering defeat, although their route has been less convincing than many expected.
The group winners often relied on moments of individual quality rather than sustained dominance, and that was evident again in the victory over Panama. A quiet first half gave way to a much stronger second, where Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham settled the fixture and ensured England finished top of the group.
Results remain the most important measure, however. Tuchel has still not lost a competitive match since taking charge, and England have shown the ability to stay composed even when performances have not flowed.
DR Congo’s path has been rather different. Their campaign looked in danger when they conceded early against Uzbekistan, but an impressive second-half response turned the match around and secured a place in the knockout stage. Yoane Wissa scored twice in that victory, while Fiston Mayele also found the net.
Qualification represents another landmark for a side making its first appearance in the tournament knockout rounds as DR Congo. Their defensive organisation has been one of the main reasons for that success, conceding only once against both Portugal and Colombia while switching systems according to the opposition.
That tactical discipline should make England work hard for opportunities. The question is whether DR Congo can contain England’s biggest attacking threats for the full 90 minutes. Kane continues to deliver in major tournaments, while Bellingham has repeatedly influenced games from midfield. If England find space in the final third, they have enough quality to punish even disciplined defending.
Team News
England’s biggest concern remains at right-back. Jarell Quansah is expected to miss out after suffering an ankle injury against Panama, joining Reece James on the sidelines. Djed Spence is therefore expected to come into the starting lineup, while Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford are both in line to continue in wide attacking roles if passed fit. Kane will spearhead the attack after becoming England’s all-time leading goalscorer of the tournament.
DR Congo have reported no fresh fitness concerns. Sebastien Desabre may return to a back five after using a 4-4-2 against Uzbekistan, which could see Steve Kapuadi replace Brian Cipenga. Fiston Mayele has pushed for a starting place following his goal in the final group game, although Cedric Bakambu’s experience could still earn him the nod alongside Yoane Wissa.
Odds and Tips
England have not dominated every game in the group stage, but they continue to produce the moments required to win matches.
DR Congo deserve enormous credit for reaching the knockout rounds and should make this a competitive contest, particularly if they remain compact defensively. Even so, England’s experience and attacking quality make them favourites to progress.
Tip: England to win at 1.31.
Don’t forget that we also have Early Payout on this match, which you can read more about here.
Odds might have changed since the writing and/or publication of this article.
Last Updated: 01.07.2026
