England vs DR Congo: Predicted FIFA World Cup 2026 Lineups

England will lock horns with the Democratic Republic of Congo in a highly anticipated FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash this evening, July 1, 2026. The Three Lions, managed by Gareth Southgate, will face Sébastien Desabre’s DR Congo, who have showcased their defensive prowess and ability to challenge stronger opponents. The knockout fixture is scheduled for a 9:30 PM IST kick-off at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. Norway Players Unleash Viking Row Celebration After Qualifying for FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 (Watch Video).

This marks the first-ever international football meeting between England and DR Congo, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the contest. England enters the match as clear favorites, but will be wary of the Leopards' organized defense.

England Team News and Predicted Lineup

England faces a tactical decision regarding their right-back position. Djed Spence is expected to step in at right-back. Declan Rice is set to return to midfield, allowing Jude Bellingham to revert to his preferred attacking midfield role. Coach Gareth Southgate is expected to deploy a familiar 4-2-3-1 formation.

England Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):

Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford

Defenders: Djed Spence, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, Rico Lewis

Midfielders: Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson

Attacking Midfielders: Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, Marcus Rashford

Forward: Harry Kane

Key Players for England:

Harry Kane: The captain and record goalscorer will lead the line, looking to add to his World Cup tally.

Jude Bellingham: Operating in the number 10 role, Bellingham's creativity and goal threat will be crucial in breaking down the Congolese defense.

Declan Rice: The midfield anchor provides vital protection and dictates the tempo from the engine room.

DR Congo Team News and Predicted Lineup

DR Congo enters this knockout stage with no reported injury concerns, allowing coach Sébastien Desabre to field his strongest available squad. The Leopards are expected to adopt a more cautious and compact 5-3-2 formation against the higher-ranked English side, a tactical approach they have utilized effectively against strong opponents. Their defensive solidity, marshalled by captain Chancel Mbemba, and rapid counter-attacking threat from forwards like Yoane Wissa and Cédric Bakambu will be central to their strategy. ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’: Football ‘GOAT’ Lionel Messi Enters Tom Holland’s Spider-Verse in Epic Crossover Promo (Watch Video).

DR Congo Predicted XI (5-3-2):

Goalkeeper: Lionel Mpasi

Defenders: Chancel Mbemba (C), Steve Kapuadi, Arthur Masuaku, Gédéon Kalulu, Christian Luyindama

Midfielders: Samuel Moutoussamy, Noah Sadiki, Ngal'ayel Mukau

Forwards: Cédric Bakambu, Yoane Wissa

Key Players for DR Congo:

Chancel Mbemba: The 'Minister of Defense' is the undisputed leader of the backline, providing aerial dominance and composure.

Yoane Wissa: The forward's pace and intelligent movement make him a constant threat on the counter-attack.

Christian Luyindama: A robust center-back, Luyindama brings significant aerial presence and physicality to the Congolese defense.

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 moves into its critical knockout stage, England will need to be clinical to break down a resilient DR Congo side. The Leopards, making their first-ever knockout appearance, will be aiming to cause a significant upset and continue their memorable run in the tournament.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 01, 2026 05:45 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).