Copy linkFacebookXPinterestEmailShare this article 0Join the conversationFollow usAdd us as a preferred source on GoogleNewsletterSubscribe to our newsletterEngland face their first test of the World Cup knockout stages when they play DR Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday.The Three Lions topped their group, beating Croatia and Panama and drawing with Ghana to ensure a last 32 tie against a third-placed team.That team is DR Congo, who have already proved themselves a difficult opponent, drawing 1-1 with Portugal, losing narrowly to Colombia and beating Uzbekistan.Play our FREE match predictor below and win �1kEngland vs DR Congo odds from BOYLE SPORTSEngland WIN - 2/7Draw - 15/4DR Congo WIN - 12/1England vs DR Congo predictionEngland have not yet caught fire at the World Cup, struggling to break down defensive opposition in Ghana and Panama.Unfortunately, DR Congo are likely to take a similar approach, sitting deep in a structured shape and looking to create chances on the break with the pace of Yoane Wissa. You may like How to watch England vs DR Congo for FREE England v DR Congo live: Kick-off time, match predictions and early team news England World Cup 2026 fixtures: Dates, times, TV channels and how to watch Englands forwards will be familiar with the defenders theyre up against: Axel Tuanzebe, once of Manchester United and now at Burnley, West Hams Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Sunderlands Arthur Masuaku all play for the African side.They form a solid foundation for a team that doesn't ship many goals, so patience may be necessary again for the Three Lions.Get FourFourTwo NewsletterThe best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.That has been the buzzword for assistant manager Anthony Barry in his last two half-time interviews, after frustrating first halves against both Ghana and Panama.The return of Declan Rice should improve Englands prospects after he missed the final group match, though Bukayo Saka has been replaced in the starting XI by Noni Madueke.Right-back has become a problem area, too, following another injury for Reece James, so all eyes will be on how Djed Spence performs in that position. What to read next What stadium are England playing at next in the World Cup 2026? Who are the BBC pundits, commentators and presenters for England vs DR Congo today? England vs Ghana prediction: Can Harry Kane fire Three Lions to another win? Regardless, England should have too much for DR Congo given the clear gulf in quality between the two squads.Getting the job done is the priority in knockout football, but the hope will be for a more fluid performance ahead of a potential last 16 tie against co-hosts Mexico at Estadio Azteca.DR Congo wont make things easy, though, even if they eventually succumb to defeat.Score prediction: England 1-0 DR CongoHow to watch England vs DR CongoYou can watch England vs DR Congo in the last 32 of World Cup 2026 for free.The match will be broadcast live on BBC One in the UK, FOX in the United States and SBS in Australia.What's your England vs DR Congo prediction? Let us know below...TOPICSEnglandCongo DRWorld CupWorld Cup 2026Callum Rice-CoatesCallum is a football writer who has had work published by the likes of BBC Sport, the Independent, BT Sport and the Blizzard, amongst various others. A lifelong Wrexham fan, he is hoping Ryan Reynolds can lead his hometown club to the promised land.
