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England 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.
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England vs DR Congo odds from BOYLE SPORTS
England WIN - 2/7
Draw - 15/4
DR Congo WIN - 12/1
England vs DR Congo prediction
England 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.
England’s forwards will be familiar with the defenders they’re up against: Axel Tuanzebe, once of Manchester United and now at Burnley , West Ham ’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Sunderland ’s Arthur Masuaku all play for the African side.
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They form a solid foundation for a team that doesn't ship many goals, so patience may be necessary again for the Three Lions.
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 England’s 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.
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 won’t make things easy, though, even if they eventually succumb to defeat.
Score prediction: England 1-0 DR Congo
How to watch England vs DR Congo
You 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...
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