England meets DR Congo today in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup. The match kicks off at noon Eastern time at Atlanta Stadium. Thomas Tuchel’s side enters as the clear favorite after finishing first in their group. DR Congo reaches this stage for the first time and will try to cause problems with a disciplined approach.
England carries more overall quality and depth. Their attack revolves around Harry Kane up top, who continues to find good positions and finish chances when the service reaches him. Jude Bellingham brings energy and control through the middle, linking play and creating openings. Bukayo Saka provides width and one on one ability on the flank, while Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson offer balance and protection in front of the back line. Jordan Pickford handles the goalkeeper duties, and the defense includes experienced options like Marc Guehi. Tuchel has favored setups that keep possession and build through the middle and wide areas.
DR Congo has shown they can compete at this level. They play with organization at the back and look for quick transitions forward. Yoane Wissa stands out as their main attacking threat with his speed and movement. Aaron Wan-Bissaka adds defensive know how from his club experience, and captain Chancel Mbemba helps organize the unit alongside Axel Tuanzebe. Their group stage results proved they can stay compact and frustrate opponents before springing counters.
The outlook points to England controlling most of the game through better possession and chance creation. DR Congo will likely sit in a low block and wait for mistakes or opportunities on the break. Breaking down a packed defense has been an area England has worked on, so how they create space through movement and combinations will be important. Set pieces could also play a role for both teams. DR Congo’s athleticism and work rate give them a chance to stay in the game longer than expected.
Individual performances will shape the outcome. Kane is counted on to deliver goals or hold up play for teammates. Bellingham needs to influence the tempo and find pockets of space. On the other side, Wissa must stay dangerous when DR Congo wins the ball higher up. Their back line will face constant pressure and needs to stay focused for the full match.
Supporters from both sides add to the setting in Atlanta. England fans expect their team to move forward but know knockout games can bring surprises. DR Congo supporters are proud of reaching this point and hope their side shows the same fight seen in the group stage. The matchup connects England’s established depth with DR Congo’s determined effort to compete on the big stage. A win would move the Three Lions into the quarterfinals against the next opponent in the bracket.