England secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over DR Congo in the Round of 32, but the big question now is — who awaits the Three Lions in their next World Cup test?

The English side managed to scrape through a challenging encounter against DR Congo in the 2026 World Cup earlier this evening.

England trailed for most of the match until Harry Kane connected with an Anthony Gordon cross in the 75th minute to level the score.

The Bayern Munich striker and captain of the Three Lions struck once more in the 86th minute, this time finishing off a clever Gordon back-heel with a powerful shot. So, who will England take on in the next round?

For England supporters who were uneasy with tonight’s performance — narrowly avoiding an early exit in the Round of 32 — the next challenge might not bring much comfort.

The Three Lions are set to face co-hosts Mexico in Mexico City, one of the most impressive teams so far in the 2026 World Cup.

Despite not having reached a World Cup quarter-final since 1986, Mexico possess a significant advantage — the legendary Estadio Azteca.

Under the guidance of Javier Aguirre, the Mexican side has been in scintillating form throughout the tournament, winning all four of their matches so far.

Adding to England’s challenge, Mexico have yet to concede a single goal at this World Cup, securing victories of 2-0, 1-0, 3-0, and most recently, 2-0 against Ecuador in the Round of 32.

That defensive dominance makes Mexico the first team since Italy in 1990 to begin a World Cup campaign with four consecutive clean-sheet wins.

Back in 1990, Italy reached the semi-finals before losing to Argentina on penalties, later defeating England 2-1 in the third-place match.

By comparison, England have conceded three goals to Mexico’s zero, though both teams have scored eight goals apiece in the tournament so far.

In their latest outings, England allowed 0.8 xG and seven shots from DR Congo, while Ecuador managed 0.75 xG and seven shots against Mexico.

Statistically, the two teams appear evenly matched on paper. However, Thomas Tuchel’s men would do well to rest and prepare thoroughly — as a gruelling battle under the lights of Mexico City surely awaits.