As the 2026 World Cup continues to deliver shocking results, England must remain vigilant when facing the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) in the knockout stage. The match is set for July 1, and England's coach, Thomas Tuchel, is urging his players not to underestimate their opponents.

England topped Group L, although their performance has raised some doubts. Historically, few teams have won the World Cup with a perfect record, with only Uruguay (1930), Italy (1938), Brazil (1970), and Brazil (2002) achieving this feat. Tuchel has yet to experience a loss in an official match since taking charge, with a record of 10 wins and 1 draw over 11 matches, excluding friendlies. However, he remains cautious ahead of the encounter with DR Congo.

When asked about the possibility of facing co-host Mexico in the next round if they advance, Tuchel stated, "If we become complacent or think too far ahead, we will pay the price. Our only focus for the next four days is this match. It’s not about Mexico or playing in Mexico; it’s about preparing well for the challenge in Atlanta, USA." While England has yet to face a comeback at this World Cup, DR Congo has shown remarkable resilience.

DR Congo made headlines by drawing 1-1 with Portugal in their opening match, despite trailing. They further impressed by defeating Uzbekistan 3-1 in their decisive match, marking their first-ever appearance in the World Cup knockout stage. Coach Sebastien Desabre’s team advanced as one of the best third-placed teams, finishing the group stage with 4 points and a goal difference of +1, just one point behind Portugal.

One standout player for DR Congo is Yoane Wissa, who scored a double in the match against Uzbekistan. Wissa has been instrumental, netting 3 of DR Congo's 4 goals in the tournament. His scoring rate has significantly improved at the World Cup compared to his club performance at Newcastle, where he averaged a goal every 301 minutes.

On England's side, Harry Kane aims to add to his tally after scoring 3 goals in the group stage, seeking to become the leading scorer in England's World Cup history. If he scores against DR Congo, he will match Geoff Hurst's record of 4 goals in knockout stages, with only Gary Lineker having more with 6.

DR Congo has displayed tactical flexibility and strong defensive capabilities throughout the tournament, conceding only 1 goal in matches against Colombia and Portugal. Thus, a resounding victory for England may not be a straightforward outcome. However, with stars like Kane and Jude Bellingham, England only needs a moment of brilliance to make a difference. Predictions favor England to advance past DR Congo, keeping their hopes alive in the 2026 World Cup.

Projected Lineups

• England: Pickford; Spence, Konsa, Guehi, O'Reilly; Anderson, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Rashford; Kane
• DR Congo: Mpasi Nzau; Wan Bissaka, Tuanzebe, Mbemba, Kapuadi, Masuaku; Moutoussamy, Sadiki, Kayembe; Wissa, Bakambu

Predicted Score: England 2-0 DR Congo