The World Cup knockout stage kicks off at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta with a fascinating Round of 32 clash between England and DR Congo. For the Three Lions, it is another mandatory hurdle on their quest for glory, while the African Leopards enter the biggest match in their football history.

England: Tuchel's Tactical Machine

England comfortably topped Group L with seven points, defeating Croatia and Panama before sharing the spoils with Ghana. Thomas Tuchel has extended his unbeaten run with the Brits to 11 matches. Harry Kane remains the focal point of the attack, cementing his status as England’s all-time top World Cup scorer with 11 goals, while young Elliot Anderson has impressed in transitional play. According to Fabrizio Romano's squad updates, Tuchel is expected to deploy a high-pressing, possession-heavy system to suffocate the underdogs from the whistle.

DR Congo: The Ultimate Underdog Story

Sébastien Desabre’s side pulled off a monumental escape to reach the knockout rounds for the first time. The Leopards shocked Portugal with a 1-1 draw, narrowly lost to Colombia (0-1), and secured their spot with a 3-1 comeback win over Uzbekistan. Forward Yoane Wissa has been sensational, netting three of his team's four goals. Desabre will heavily rely on a compact low block anchored by Chancel Mbemba and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, hoping to exploit England on the counter.

Key Match Stats

• This is the first-ever competitive meeting between England and DR Congo.

• England is currently on an 11-match unbeaten streak under manager Thomas Tuchel.

• Yoane Wissa has scored 75% of DR Congo's total goals in the tournament so far.

Prediction: DR Congo will defend deep in their box, doing everything to slow the tempo and deny space to Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane. Expect a tight, cagey affair where England's squad depth eventually breaks the deadlock in a low-scoring victory. The top pick is Total Under 3 Goals.