Thomas Tuchel’s side advanced comfortably after finishing top of Group L with seven points, defeating Croatia and Panama before settling for a draw against Ghana. Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham found their scoring touch during the group stage, but England are still looking for more fluidity in attack as tougher challenges await.
On its way is a part of the DR Congo that enjoys the best campaign of the World Cup in the history of the nation. Under Sébastien Desabre, the Congolese have become one of the most organized teams in the tournament, combining defensive discipline with dangerous counter-attacking football. Their memorable 3-2 win over Uzbekistan secured their first World Cup victory and a place in the knockout rounds.
Desabre’s tactical flexibility has been central to the team’s success. Although he traditionally prefers a back four, the coach has embraced a back-five system to frustrate stronger opponents. With captain Chancel Mbemba leading a settled defense and Yoane Wissa spearheading the attack alongside Cédric Bakambu, DR Congo have shown they are capable of troubling any opponent.
England are favorites on paper, but patience will be essential against a side that rarely give clear-cut opportunities. The Three Lions should also be careful against the pace of DR Congo in the break, especially through Wissa, who has emerged as one of the protagonists of the tournament.
Victory will bring England one step closer to ending decades of World Cup disappointment, while DR Congo have the chance to continue one of the competition’s most remarkable stories.