England vs DR Congo World Cup 2026 preview

England and DR Congo meet in the World Cup Round of 32 on 1 July 2026, kicking off at 16:00 GMT (12:00 EST) at Atlanta Stadium. Thomas Tuchel’s England arrive aiming to carry group-stage momentum into the knockouts, while DR Congo reach this stage for the first time under Sébastien Desabre.

England topped Group L with seven points, beating Croatia and Panama and drawing with Ghana, with Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane providing crucial goals. DR Congo advanced as the highest-ranked third-place team from Group K with four points after a 1-1 draw with Portugal, a narrow 1-0 loss to Colombia and a decisive 3-1 win over Uzbekistan.

Tactical flexibility should shape the tie. Desabre has built defensive stability—29 clean sheets in 57 matches—and has often deployed a rigid back-five low block at this tournament to frustrate stronger European sides. DR Congo will look to absorb pressure and strike on the counter, so England need to manage transitions carefully and avoid conceding loose balls in dangerous areas.

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