Three Lions Face Historic Knockout Check In opposition to Leopards – Softfootball

England will proceed their 2026 World Cup journey on Wednesday after they face DR Congo within the last-32 stage at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with Thomas Tuchel’s facet aiming to show their title credentials in opposition to a fearless African opponent.

The Three Lions secured prime spot in Group L regardless of failing to completely persuade in the course of the group stage. After a troublesome opening interval in opposition to Panama, England produced a stronger second-half show, with Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham scoring the targets that sealed a 2-0 victory and confirmed qualification as group winners.

DR Congo have already created historical past by reaching the knockout phases for the primary time as an unbiased nation. The Leopards secured qualification as the perfect third-placed staff after a dramatic comeback win over Uzbekistan and earlier holding Portugal to a a irritating 1-1 draw originally of the marketing campaign.

Sebastien Desabre’s facet have proven resilience all through the match and can imagine they will trigger a serious upset in opposition to one of many favourites. A victory would ship DR Congo right into a last-16 assembly with both Mexico or Ecuador.

Crew Information

England are coping with issues at right-back after accidents to Jarell Quansah and Reece James. Djed Spence is predicted to begin, whereas Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford and captain Harry Kane are more likely to characteristic.

DR Congo don’t have any contemporary harm issues. Desabre might return to a five-man defensive system, with Steve Kapuadi pushing for a begin. Yoane Wissa is predicted to steer the assault after his spectacular show, whereas Brian Cipenga might make approach.

Potential Lineups

England attainable beginning lineup:

Pickford; Spence, Konsa, Guehi, O’Reilly; Anderson, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Rashford; Kane

DR Congo attainable beginning lineup:

Mpasi-Nzau; Wan-Bissaka, Tuanzebe, Mbemba, Kapuadi, Masuaku; Moutoussamy, Sadiki, Kayembe; Wissa, Bakambu

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Match Prediction

Softfootball predicts England 2-0 DR Congo.