England vs DR Congo preview: Tuchel's men set to unlock Congolese defense - 1.07.2026
On July 1st, the 2026 World Cup will feature another round of 16 clash that, on paper, looks straightforward: England face DR Congo. But it's exactly these fixtures that so often become a nerve-wracking ordeal for the favorites. England have everything to lose, while DR Congo step onto the pitch with nothing at stake.
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England arrive in the knockout stage in high spirits. Thomas Tuchel’s squad topped Group L with seven points. It all began with a thrilling 4-2 win over Croatia, followed by a rather uneventful goalless draw with Ghana, before the Three Lions calmly dispatched Panama 2-0 in the final group match. First place was secured without unnecessary drama, and now the most crucial phase of the tournament begins. The main objective for the Three Lions is not just to clear the first knockout hurdle, but to finally mount a serious challenge for the trophy. Under Tuchel, the team is steadily building momentum, and the coach is confident that his players will hit their peak when it matters most — in the knockout rounds.
DR Congo have already emerged as one of the tournament’s biggest revelations. The African side finished third in Group K, but thanks to the new tournament format, that was enough to book a spot in the playoffs. In their decisive match, Congo defeated Uzbekistan 3-1, claiming the first World Cup victory in their history. The hero of the night was Yoane Wissa, who bagged a brace, while Sébastien Desabre’s team once again demonstrated grit and resilience, bouncing back even after conceding. Now, the real football festival begins for them — a date with one of the tournament’s heavyweights.
As for England’s lineup, things look formidable. Jude Bellingham is returning to his best, Harry Kane keeps finding the net, and Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, and Declan Rice provide the perfect balance between attack and defense. The only concern is the backline after Jarell Quansah’s injury, but England’s squad depth should cover for any absences.
DR Congo will almost certainly opt for a cautious approach. Expect them to keep things tight, close down the spaces, and look for opportunities on the counter, where Wissa and his teammates can threaten any defense. The Congolese have already proven they can weather the storm and capitalize on their chances.
England are expected to seize control from the opening whistle. The real question isn’t who will dictate the tempo, but how quickly the favorites can break the deadlock. If the opening goal comes in the first half, Tuchel’s side could enjoy a comfortable evening. But if DR Congo manage to hold out for an hour, England’s nerves will only grow.
Prediction — total goals over 2.
Probable lineups:
- England: Pickford, Spence, Konsa, Guéhi, O’Reilly, Anderson, Rice, Saka, Bellingham, Rashford, Kane.
- DR Congo: Mpasi Nzau, Masuaku, Kapuadi, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Wan-Bissaka, Mbuku, Moutoussamy, Sadiki, Bakambu, Wissa.
