England face a pivotal moment in their World Cup campaign on Wednesday as they enter the last-32 knockout stage against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The clash marks the beginning of a high-stakes, all-or-nothing phase for the squad, with the path to glory now a five-game sprint over less than three weeks, and here are five key talking points ahead of Wednesday’s match...
Who plays right-back?
Thomas Tuchel has a significant selection headache at right-back. With Reece James sidelined by a hamstring injury and his replacement against Panama, Jarell Quansah, also doubtful due to an ankle problem, options are scarce.
Tuchel is left to choose between Djed Spence, typically a left-back, and Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa, a natural centre-back who could get the nod.
This predicament casts a spotlight on Tuchel’s earlier decisions to omit Trent Alexander-Arnold and replace the injured Tino Livramento with another central defender, Trevoh Chalobah.
Winger woes
Further up the pitch, the search for an effective winger combination continues. None of Tuchel’s four primary choices have consistently impressed.
Bukayo Saka, making his first start against Panama, faded after a promising opening, while Marcus Rashford’s end product proved frustrating despite his initial intent.
Noni Madueke appears to be preferred on the left over Anthony Gordon, whose two lacklustre displays may have cost him his chance. Eberechi Eze or Morgan Rogers remain alternative options.
Rice returns as Bellingham pushes forward
In midfield, the return of Declan Rice, who sat out the Panama game with a knock, is anticipated. His reintroduction is set to shift Jude Bellingham back into the number 10 role, a position where he has previously excelled.
Bellingham’s impact in a deeper role during Rice’s absence, contributing a goal and an assist against Panama, highlights his versatility. Rice’s presence will be crucial, particularly if England need to leverage set-pieces to break down a resilient DR Congo defence.
It’s a knockout
The intensity of the tournament escalates with the knockout rounds, and England are acutely aware that every match is now a final.
The squad is preparing for all eventualities, including extra time and the dreaded penalty shootout.
Tuchel has previously stated that winning the World Cup will likely involve triumphing in at least one shootout, though the team will be hoping to avoid such a scenario on Wednesday.
DR Congo will see you now
While the Democratic Republic of Congo might appear a favourable draw on paper, they are expected to pose a stern challenge.
Ranked 41st globally, the African side held Portugal to a draw in the group stage and will aim to frustrate England. Their squad features several familiar faces, including Yoane Wissa, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Axel Tuanzebe, and Noah Sadiki.
Wissa, in particular, will be eager to prove a point against familiar opponents, having endured an injury-plagued first season with Newcastle following his £55m move from Brentford.
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