England begin their 2026 World Cup knockout journey this evening against historic qualifiers Congo DR. The Round of 32 tie kicks off at 18:00 CET in Atlanta, with Thomas Tuchel’s side among the tournament favourites facing the Léopards, who have reached this phase for the first time in their history.
Confirmed Lineups
Tuchel has selected Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane and former Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham in his starting eleven. Kane leads the line in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Bellingham deployed in an advanced midfield role alongside Madueke and Rashford. Declan Rice starts in the deeper midfield pairing, though Bayer Leverkusen defender Quansah misses out despite his club form.
Jordan Pickford retains his place between the posts. The defence comprises Spence, Konsa, Guehi and O’Reilly, with Rice and Anderson screening the back four.
Congo DR set up in a 4-3-3 formation featuring Newcastle forward Yoanne Wissa as the focal point. The tournament’s top scorer is flanked by FC Augsburg winger Nathaniel Mbuku and Cipenga. Tuanzebe starts at centre-back alongside Mbemba, with Wan-Bissaka and Masuaku operating as full-backs. Mpasi takes his place in goal.
Knockout Stakes
The expanded tournament format offers no second chances at this stage. England, seeking to justify their pre-tournament billing, must overcome a Congo DR side that has already exceeded expectations by securing a maiden knockout berth.
The victor will advance to the last 16, while the loser exits the competition. With Kane chasing the Golden Boot and Wissa currently leading the scoring charts, the individual battle between the strikers could prove decisive.