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England vs Congo FIFA World Cup: The excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026 has now reached its most critical phase: the 'Round of 32' knockout stage. Tonight promises a fascinating clash as title favorites England (the 'Three Lions') face one of the tournament's biggest 'dark horses,' DR Congo (the 'Leopards'). This high-stakes, do-or-die encounter is scheduled to kick off tonight, June 1, 2026, at 10:30 PM IST.
England topped their group after a stellar performance in the group stage. Meanwhile, DR Congo made history by advancing to the knockout stage for the first time, leaving behind teams like Nigeria and Ghana. For the losing team, the World Cup journey ends tonight, while the winner will advance directly to the 'Round of 16' (pre-quarterfinals).
England vs DR Congo: Match Preview and Team News
Under the guidance of their head coach, England stands as one of the top contenders to win the tournament. After resting key players in their final group stage match, England is set to field a full-strength squad tonight. This means captain Harry Kane, Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham, and Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka are fully rested and ready to test the Congolese defense. England's midfield and attack look formidable.
On the other hand, DR Congo coach Sébastien Desabre has nothing to lose. The team has already made history by reaching the knockout stage. The Congolese squad is known for its robust physical style of play and disciplined defense. The team will rely heavily on their star striker, Yoane Wissa, who can leverage his Premier League (Brentford) experience to outwit the English defenders.
England vs DR Congo Probable Starting 11 and Formations
England Predicted Playing XI (Formation: 4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford
- Defenders: Kyle Walker, John Stones, Marc Guéhi, Kieran Trippier
- Defensive Midfielders: Declan Rice, Kobbie Mainoo
- Attacking Midfielders: Bukayo Saka (RW), Jude Bellingham (CAM), Phil Foden (LW)
- Striker/Centre-Forward: Harry Kane (C)
DR Congo Predicted Playing XI (Formation: 4-3-3 / 4-5-1)
- Goalkeeper: Lionel Mpasi
- Defenders: Gédéon Kalulu, Chancel Mbemba (C), Inonga Baka, Arthur Masuaku
- Midfielders: Meschack Elia, Samuel Moutoussamy, Charles Pickel, Théo Bongonda, Gaël Kakuta
- Striker/Forward: Yoane Wissa
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England vs Congo Match Prediction
This contest will primarily be a battle between England's world-class attack and Congo's physical defense. England will look to dominate possession from the start and create chances for Harry Kane with the help of Bellingham and Foden. The Congo team will play on the back foot, relying on counter-attacks driven by the pace of Yoane Wissa. However, holding out for the full 90 minutes against England's star power and squad depth will be an immense challenge for Congo.
Who Will Win Today's World Cup Match? England vs DR Congo
Given the caliber of their players, international experience, and FIFA rankings, England are the heavy favorites to win this match. According to supercomputer prediction data, England have a greater than 72.4% chance of winning within regulation time.
Our Prediction: England could easily win this match 2-0 or 3-0. Captain Harry Kane or Jude Bellingham could score for England today and propel the team into the next round.
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