England met DR Congo today in the Round of 32 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Kickoff is 5pm BST, with a last 16 spot on the line. Here are five storylines that could shape how this game unfolds.
1. England's Right Back Problem
Reece James and Jarell Quansah are both out through injury for this match. Djed Spence steps in at right back, an area England has struggled to settle all tournament. DR Congo could look to target that space early with quick wide attacks. How Spence handles that pressure may shape England's defensive shape today.
2. Yoane Wissa Against a Rested Defense
Yoane Wissa has scored twice at this World Cup, more than his entire club season. He often plays as a lone striker, relying on pace and sharp finishing. England's defense has looked solid, conceding just two goals across three matches. This matchup between Wissa and England's back line could decide the game's biggest moments.
3. Can England Break Down a Low Block Early
Ghana and Panama both sat deep against England and made life difficult. DR Congo is built the same way, with a compact back line under coach Sebastien Desabre. England has gone into halftime scoreless in two of three group games. Breaking the deadlock early today would ease pressure heading into the second half.
4. Wan-Bissaka and Tuanzebe Facing Their Old Path
Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe both came through England's youth setup before switching allegiance. Today, they line up for DR Congo instead of the country that developed them. Their Premier League experience gives DR Congo a defensive edge most debut nations lack. Their performance against England's attackers will be a story worth watching closely.
5. A First Ever Knockout Game for DR Congo
DR Congo is playing in a World Cup knockout match for the first time ever. That kind of occasion sometimes lifts a team beyond its usual level. It can also bring nerves that show up in the final third. How DR Congo handles that pressure early may decide whether they stay competitive.
Match Details
The match kicks off at 5pm BST from Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. England topped Group L, while DR Congo advanced as the best third placed team. The winner advances to face either Ecuador or Mexico in the Round of 16.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What time does England vs DR Congo start today?
Kickoff is at 5pm BST from Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
Q: Who is DR Congo's most dangerous attacking player?
Yoane Wissa leads their attack, with two goals already at this World Cup.
Q: Why is England's right back position a concern?
Reece James and Jarell Quansah are both injured, forcing Djed Spence into the role.
Q: Have Wan-Bissaka and Tuanzebe played for England before?
Both came through England's youth teams before switching to represent DR Congo.
Q: What happens to the winner of this match?
The winner advances to face the Ecuador vs Mexico winner in the Round of 16.
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