Are England doomed to World Cup failure after DR Congo opener? 👀 | OneFootball

Are England doomed to World Cup failure after DR Congo opener? 👀 | OneFootball

In partnership with

Yahoo sports
Icon: OneFootball

OneFootball

Richard Buxton·1 July 2026

Are England doomed to World Cup failure after DR Congo opener? 👀

Article image:Are England doomed to World Cup failure after DR Congo opener? 👀

England's World Cup knockout hopes are off to the worst possible start against DR Congo.

Brian Cipenga pulled off an early shock at Atlanta Stadium as he fired the world's 35th-ranked nation ahead against Thomas Tuchel's side after just seven minutes.


OneFootball Videos


The Three Lions' response before the mandated first-half hydration break was hardly inspiring but history suggests that things could be about to get even worse.

Since being crowned champions back in 1966, England have never won any of their last 13 fixtures at the World Cup when they have conceded the first goal.

Are the 60 years of hurt set to continue?


📸 Darrian Traynor - 2026 Getty Images

View publisher imprint