FIFA World Cup 2026: Undefeated England face ambitious DR Congo in a knockout match

Thomas Tuchel’s England go into the Round of 32 with the confidence of an unbeaten group stage, but between the Three Lions and the pre-quarter-finals is a DR Congo side making history.

The Leopards have reached the knockout rounds of the World Cup for the first time. After drawing with Portugal, narrowly losing to Colombia and beating Uzbekistan, they believe they can frustrate another European heavyweight.

Coach Sébastien Desabre has built his side in terms of defensive organisation, often switching to a back five against stronger opponents before striking on the counter thanks to the pace of Yoane Wissa and the experience of Cedric Bakambu. Wissa was the standout, scoring three of DR Congo’s four goals in the group stage, while the energetic combination of Noah Sadiki and Ngal’ayel Mukau in midfield gave the Leopards the ability to quickly jump from defense into attack.

England, meanwhile, topped Group L with wins over Croatia and Panama before drawing against Ghana. Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane found their scoring touch in the final group match, while Tuchel remains unbeaten in competitive matches as England coach. On the other hand, the experienced combination of John Stones and Marc Guehi has provided defensive stability despite injury concerns around the wing-backs.

The possibility of a penalty shootout has already been included in England’s preparations after two heavyweights Germany and the Netherlands were eliminated after losing the match from the dreaded spot.

“As in all phases of the game, we take it extremely seriously,” winger Noni Madueke said. “When you get into knockout football it is something that is becoming more and more prominent in the matches, so like every part of our game we want to be at the highest level in that area.”

Desabre knows that his team will also be able to draw on familiar faces from English football. “We have a few players in the squad who play for clubs in the English league, so they will help us, but we will prepare as best we can for what will be a very big game for us,” he said.

Injuries to Reece James and backup Jarell Quansah at right-back could force England into another reshuffle. DR Congo, meanwhile, is expected to retreat to a compact defensive block, and patience could prove to be the key quality in a knockout match that promises to be tighter than the rankings suggest.

Published on June 30, 2026