World Cup

England

01 Jul 2026 17:00

Congo DR

Prediction:

England to win 1.29

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EnglandDraw Congo DR

England vs Congo DR Predictions, Picks & Odds – 01/07/2026

World Cup · Round of 32

Our prediction

1: England to win

1.29 on Betfred · Confidence High

Odds recorded on 29 Jun 2026 at 23:35 · Odds are subject to change

England vs Congo DR Preview

England arrive in Atlanta in formidable shape, having topped their group with four wins from five matches and conceding just twice. Thomas Tuchel's side scored six goals during the group stage, though they did encounter difficulties breaking down deep-sitting defences against Ghana and Panama. A mounting injury crisis at right-back clouds preparations, with Reece James ruled out and Jarrell Quansah doubtful, forcing tactical adjustments at the back.

DR Congo make history by reaching the knockout rounds for the first time, ending a 52-year absence from the world stage. Sébastien Desabre's side finished third in their group, collecting two wins and two draws while conceding three goals. Their disciplined defensive structure and dangerous counter-attacking play troubled Portugal in the group phase. Ranked 46th in the world, they will relish the underdog tag in this maiden competitive meeting between the two nations.

England's home win at 1.29 reflects their superior quality and outstanding group-stage form. The Three Lions scored six goals while shipping only two, and their top-of-the-group finish underlines a level of consistency that Congo DR, despite their historic progression, have not matched. A single defeat and two draws in five outings suggest the African side remain vulnerable under sustained pressure.

Thomas Tuchel's right-back crisis, with Reece James ruled out and Jarrell Quansah doubtful, is a genuine concern. Congo DR's coach Sébastien Desabre will look to exploit that flank on the counter, a strategy his side deployed effectively during the group stage. England have also shown difficulty breaking down deep defensive blocks, which adds a layer of caution to the scoreline forecast.

The under 2.5 goals market at 2.04 looks attractive given the tactical dynamics at play. Congo DR will sit deep and congest central areas, forcing England to be patient. With both teams to score priced at 1.44 for the "no" option, a controlled 1-0 or 2-0 England victory feels the likeliest outcome, keeping the goal count modest while the Three Lions advance.

Trends to Know about England vs Congo DR

• England scored six goals in group stage
• Congo DR conceded three in five matches
• England won four of last five fixtures

England's probable shape remains speculative at this stage, with the source drawn from a single set of reports rather than confirmed by the camp, so the 4-3-3 listed above should be treated with some caution. Congo DR's 5-3-2, by contrast, is well-supported by multiple credible outlets and consistent with Desabre's established tactical approach.

Should England line up as anticipated, Jude Bellingham operating in a three-man midfield faces a compact, wing-back-heavy defensive structure from the Leopards, where Yoane Wissa will look to threaten on the counter. The 4-3-3 versus 5-3-2 contest sets up as a battle between England's width and Congo DR's defensive solidity through the central corridor.

How to Watch England vs Congo DR Match?

What time is England vs Congo DR?

England vs Congo DR kicks off at 17:00 BST on Tuesday 1 July 2026 in Atlanta.

Where is England vs Congo DR being played?

This fixture takes place at the Atlanta Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.

How Can I Watch England vs Congo DR on TV and Live Stream?

England vs Congo DR will be broadcast live on ITV and available to stream via ITVX.