England are approaching a defining moment in their World Cup journey as they prepare to take on the Democratic Republic of Congo in the last-32 knockout stage on Wednesday.
This encounter signals the start of the do-or-die phase of the tournament, with the road to the final now reduced to a five-match sprint over less than three weeks. Here are five key points to consider ahead of the crucial fixture.
Head coach Thomas Tuchel faces a major selection dilemma at right-back. With Reece James ruled out due to a hamstring injury and his temporary replacement against Panama, Jarell Quansah, also struggling with an ankle issue, Tuchel’s choices are severely limited.
The manager must decide between Djed Spence, who typically operates on the left flank, and Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa, a natural centre-back who could be shifted wide to fill the gap.
This issue has reignited scrutiny over Tuchel’s earlier selection calls, particularly his decision to leave out Trent Alexander-Arnold and replace the injured Tino Livramento with another central defender, Trevoh Chalobah.
Djed Spence may be the one to slot in at right-back, though it would be far from his preferred role.
Further up the field, England’s search for an effective wing pairing remains unresolved. None of the four main options have made a convincing case so far. Bukayo Saka, who started against Panama, faded after a bright opening spell, while Marcus Rashford struggled to convert his early energy into meaningful results.
Noni Madueke seems to have edged ahead on the left wing, with Anthony Gordon likely to drop out after two underwhelming performances. Eberechi Eze and Morgan Rogers remain potential alternatives should Tuchel opt for a change in approach.
In midfield, the anticipated return of Declan Rice, who missed the Panama match with a minor knock, is expected to restore balance. His comeback should allow Jude Bellingham to move back into the number 10 position, where he has often been at his most influential.
Bellingham’s display in a deeper role against Panama, which included a goal and an assist, underscored his adaptability. However, Rice’s presence will be vital, particularly if England are forced to rely on set-pieces to breach a disciplined DR Congo defence.
The knockout rounds bring heightened pressure, and England are fully aware that from this point onward, every fixture could be their last. The team has been preparing for all outcomes, including extra time and the possibility of a penalty shootout.
Tuchel has previously acknowledged that any side hoping to lift the World Cup will likely have to prevail in at least one shootout, though England will aim to avoid that scenario on Wednesday if possible.
While DR Congo may seem a favourable opponent on paper, they are expected to offer a stern test. Currently ranked 41st in the world, the African side managed to hold Portugal to a draw in the group phase and will look to frustrate England with disciplined defending and quick counter-attacks.
Their squad features several familiar names to Premier League followers, including Yoane Wissa, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Axel Tuanzebe, and Noah Sadiki. Wissa, in particular, will be eager to make an impression against English opposition after enduring an injury-hit debut season at Newcastle following his £55 million switch from Brentford.
