England seek sharper edge against DR Congo in World Cup knockout clash
The Three Lions begin the knockout stage as favourites, but a history-making DR Congo side will be determined to extend its dream World Cup run.
England begin their Fifa World Cup knockout campaign against tournament debutants DR Congo in the round of 32 tonight (1 July), looking to move one step closer to ending their 60-year wait for a second world title.
The match kicks off at 10pm tonight (BST).
Thomas Tuchel's side advanced from the group stage unbeaten, but their performances have done little to ease concerns over their attacking fluency.
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A laboured victory over Panama and an uninspiring draw in their final group game have raised questions over whether England have the intensity and creativity needed to mount a serious title challenge, reports Al Jazeera.
Captain Harry Kane has led from the front with three goals at the tournament, while Jude Bellingham has continued to be England's driving force in midfield. Despite entering the tie as overwhelming favourites, the Three Lions know there is little room for complacency in the knockout rounds.
Standing in their way is a DR Congo side already enjoying the finest World Cup campaign in the nation's history. Making their first appearance at the tournament since competing as Zaire in 1974, the Congolese reached the knockout stage for the first time after defeating Uzbekistan 3-2 to claim their maiden World Cup victory.
Their journey has been anything but straightforward. DR Congo sealed qualification through the inter-confederation playoffs by overcoming Jamaica and have battled through difficult circumstances, with their preparations disrupted by the Ebola crisis back home.
Wednesday's encounter will be the first-ever meeting between England and DR Congo.
The winners will face either Ecuador or Mexico in the round of 16.
England are expected to welcome back Declan Rice after the midfielder missed the victory over Panama, while Djed Spence is likely to start at right-back following injuries to Reece James and Jarell Quansah. DR Congo, meanwhile, have no fresh injury concerns ahead of the tie.
Probable XIs
England (4-2-3-1): Pickford; Spence, Konsa, Guehi, O'Reilly; Anderson, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Rashford; Kane.
DR Congo (5-3-2): Mpasi; Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Kapuadi, Masuaku; Mukau, Moutoussamy, Kayembe; Wissa, Bakambu.
