Fifa World Cup 2026: What you need to know about England's opponents DR Congo

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, England is set to face DR Congo in the knockout stage, marking a significant moment for both teams. DR Congo, having qualified for the World Cup for the first time in over five decades, is eager to make a mark after a long absence from the global stage. Their journey to this point has been filled with challenges and triumphs, showcasing their resilience and determination. Under the guidance of head coach Sebastien Desabre, the team has transformed from a struggling side into a competitive force, culminating in their qualification for the knockout rounds. The team's history in the World Cup is a tale of redemption. Fifty-two years ago, when they were known as Zaire, they suffered a humiliating debut, losing all three group matches, including a staggering 9-0 defeat to Yugoslavia. This time, however, they have shown significant improvement, with a solid defensive strategy that has resulted in 29 clean sheets in 57 matches under Desabre's management. The tactical evolution of the team has been evident, with a shift from a back five to a more dynamic 4-4-2 formation that has allowed them to secure crucial victories, including a notable win against Uzbekistan. DR Congo's strengths lie in their defensive solidity and swift counter-attacks. The team has developed a reputation for being difficult to break down, often relying on the speed and skill of their forwards, such as Cedric Bakambu and Yoane Wissa, to exploit gaps in the opposition's defense. Mental resilience has also been a key factor in their success, forged through a challenging qualifying campaign that tested their limits. However, they face challenges, including a lack of experience against top-ranked teams and concerns over player conditioning, as many regular starters have struggled for game time at their clubs. As the match against England approaches, all eyes will be on key players like central defender Chancel Mbemba, who brings leadership and experience to the squad, and the dynamic midfielder Noah Sadiki, who has quickly become a fan favorite. The team's head coach, Sebastien Desabre, has been instrumental in their resurgence, and his ability to harness the talents of players from the Congolese diaspora has been pivotal. With a rich history and a renewed sense of purpose, DR Congo is ready to take on the challenge of facing England in what promises to be an exciting encounter.