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Alex Mott·1. Juli 2026
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Alex Mott·1. Juli 2026
The Round of 32 continues with another trio of fascinating knockout ties as England face DR Congo, Belgium meet Senegal and the United States take on Bosnia and Herzegovina.
England and Belgium entered the tournament among the pre-competition favourites, while the USA have grown into the tournament on home soil. Standing in their way are three teams that have already exceeded expectations, with DR Congo, Senegal and Bosnia and Herzegovina all proving they belong on the biggest stage.
Here are the big questions on Day 21.
England begin the knockout stage against one of the tournament's surprise packages.
Thomas Tuchel's side topped Group L, but they have yet to fully convince. While England remained unbeaten, questions have been raised over their attacking fluency after a series of workmanlike performances.
DR Congo have already made history by reaching the knockout rounds in their first World Cup appearance since 1974. Sébastien Desabre's side recovered from a difficult start to the tournament before producing a decisive victory over Uzbekistan to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams. Their disciplined defensive structure has frustrated opponents throughout the competition.
England possess superior quality across the pitch, but DR Congo have shown enough resilience to suggest this could be closer than many expect.
Our prediction: England 2-0 DR Congo
A meeting between two athletic, technically gifted sides could produce one of the games of the round.
Belgium progressed confidently after finishing top of Group G, combining experience with an exciting new generation. Their defensive organisation has provided the platform for a team that has steadily improved as the tournament has progressed.
Senegal also arrive full of confidence after advancing from a difficult group featuring France and Norway. Their pace on the counter-attack and physical presence have troubled opponents throughout the tournament, and they have once again demonstrated why they remain one of Africa's strongest international sides.
Our prediction: Belgium 2-1 Senegal
The hosts will hope home support can carry them into the last 16.
The United States have enjoyed an encouraging campaign, showing resilience and growing confidence with each match. Mauricio Pochettino's side have blended youthful energy with experienced leadership and now have the chance to equal their best World Cup run on home soil.
Bosnia and Herzegovina have been one of the stories of the tournament after reaching the knockout rounds in their first World Cup since 2014. Built around experienced striker Edin Džeko and an organised defensive unit, they have consistently frustrated opponents despite creating relatively few chances. The Guardian reported that the USA are expecting a disciplined, adaptable Bosnia side capable of posing problems on the counter-attack.
Our prediction: USA 2-1 Bosnia and Herzegovina
Jude Bellingham
📸 Al Bello - 2026 Getty Images
England's midfielder has once again shown why he is regarded as one of the world's finest all-round players.
Bellingham has combined his trademark composure in possession with an ability to influence matches in both penalty areas. Reuters highlighted him as one of England's key performers during a group stage in which others struggled to consistently reach their best level.
If England are to challenge for the trophy, expect Bellingham to be at the heart of everything they do.
DR Congo are playing in the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time in their history. Their only previous appearance at the finals came in 1974, meaning reaching the Round of 32 already represents the nation's best-ever World Cup performance
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