England vs DR Congo LIVE: World Cup 2026 match stream, confirmed team news, lineups and fan reaction | OneFootball

Co-hosts Mexico await the winners of last-32 showdown in Atlanta

The World Cup 2026 round of 32 continues as England face DR Congo in Atlanta this afternoon. The Three Lions are strong favourites to reach the last 16, where Mexico would lie in wait at the formidable Estadio Azteca after the co-hosts easily brushed aside Ecuador. England are looking to step things up after taking time to break down stubborn Panama, securing top spot in Group L with a 2-0 victory that followed a stalemate with Ghana and thrilling win over Croatia.

Declan Rice returns to England’s midfield, though Thomas Tuchel has a crisis at right-back with Reece James and Jarell Quansah injured. Djed Spence starts instead, while Noni Madueke and Marcus Rashford are preferred to Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon out wide. England have never previously played DR Congo, who have reached the World Cup knockout phase for the first time on their second finals appearance after topping the third-place standings following a Group K campaign in which they drew with Portugal.

The Leopards’ squad features a number of Premier League stars, including Yoane Wissa and Aaron Wan-Bissaka. Follow England vs DR Congo live below, with expert analysis from Standard Sport’s Dom Smith at Atlanta Stadium.