World Cup 2026: DR Congo stand between England and dream

England may have finished top of Group L, but questions continue to surround Thomas Tuchel’s side ahead of a potentially tricky World Cup Round of 32 showdown against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The Three Lions progressed with seven points, sealing first place thanks to a 2-0 victory over Panama that handed them what appears to be a favourable route through the knockout stage. However, their performances have done little to convince that they are genuine title favourites.

Since opening the tournament with an entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia, England’s attacking fluency has faded. They were frustrated in a goalless draw against Ghana before struggling for long periods against Panama, eventually relying on second-half goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane to secure victory.

While the results have been enough to keep their World Cup ambitions on course, the displays suggest there is significant room for improvement as the margin for error disappears in the knockout rounds.

DR Congo arrive with nothing to lose

Standing in England’s way is a Democratic Republic of Congo side already celebrating a historic achievement after reaching the knockout stage for the first time.

The Leopards advanced as the highest-ranked third-placed team after producing a spirited 3-1 comeback victory over Uzbekistan in Atlanta. Having fallen behind early, they showed resilience before a second-half penalty sparked their revival in a must-win encounter.

That victory capped an impressive campaign for Sebastien Desabre’s men, who also earned a credible draw against Portugal and pushed Colombia in a narrow defeat.

Against Uzbekistan, DR Congo adopted an attacking system with two forwards, but England are expected to face a far more cautious approach. Desabre is likely to revert to a five-man defence, the setup that frustrated Portugal and kept Colombia under pressure throughout their meeting.

With expectations already exceeded, the Congolese head into Wednesday’s contest free from pressure and determined to extend their remarkable journey.

Redemption more than 50 years in the making

This tournament represents far more than a place in the knockout rounds for DR Congo.

Their only previous World Cup appearance came in 1974 when the nation competed as Zaire. It remains one of the most difficult campaigns in tournament history, ending with three defeats, no goals scored and 14 conceded, including a 9-0 loss to Yugoslavia.

Their return to football’s biggest stage has been anything but straightforward. DR Congo first overcame Jamaica in the inter-confederation play-offs before travelling to the World Cup amid disruptions caused by the Ebola crisis at home.

Despite those challenges, they have rewritten history by reaching the knockout phase, giving the African nation renewed belief ahead of its biggest test yet.

Tuchel faces selection headache

England are expected to receive a timely boost with Declan Rice likely to return to the starting lineup after missing the Panama victory.

However, concerns persist at right-back.

Reece James remains doubtful after sitting out the final group match because of a hamstring injury, while his replacement, Jarell Quansah, was forced off with an ankle problem. Those setbacks are expected to hand Djed Spence an opportunity to start in Atlanta.

Tuchel will hope greater balance in midfield and fresh legs in defence can help raise England’s intensity, which has noticeably dipped since their opening fixture.

Knockout football demands another level

England entered the tournament among the favourites to lift the trophy and end their 60-year wait for World Cup glory, but reputation alone will not be enough from this point forward.

DR Congo have already demonstrated resilience, tactical discipline and a fearless mentality against stronger opponents. With nothing to lose and history already made, they possess the qualities to trouble an England side still searching for its best football.

The reward for the winners is a place in the last 16 against either Mexico or Ecuador.