World Cup
2026-07-01 - England vs DR Congo
A Sports Betting Pick by ArmchairPunter
Football : World: FIFA World Cup - Round of 32
Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Wednesday 1st July 2026, 1200hrs (local)
England
England laboured to a somewhat unconvincing 2-0 win against Panama in their final game of the group stage in Group L to finish top of the table ahead of runners-up, Croatia, but significant improvement is still required if Thomas Tuchel’s side are to be considered serious contenders to lift the World Cup trophy this time around.
England recorded an encouraging and impressive 4-2 win over Croatia in their opening game in Group L but although they gained a point in a drab 0-0 stalemate with Ghana along with picking up the important three points against Panama, the performances have been underwhelming.
Nevertheless, the Three Lions have slipped to just one loss in their last 13 matches overall in all competitions and having collected 10 wins in the process, Thomas Tuchel’s side are still favourites to come out on top against DR Congo on Wednesday lunchtime (local time).
DR Congo
A comprehensive 3-1 win against Uzbekistan in their final game in Group K secured DR Congo’s place in the knockout round of 32 after having picked up just a single point from their opening two group matches.
A morale-boosting 1-1 draw with group favourites Portugal in their opening game failed to produce a spark on matchday two for the African nation as they were dealt a 1-0 loss at the hands of Colombia, leaving Sebastien Desabre’s side needing a win in their final game which they duly delivered.
DR Congo are likely to sit back now in this knockout tie with England in what is expected to be a physical war of attrition, similar to England’s fixture with Ghana, but both sides have never met before in any previous competition.
The Betting Verdict
Declan Rice is expected to be back for England after his leadership was sorely missed against Panama, but Tuchel’s side should come out on top in what is expected to be a low-scoring affair.
The Pick :
England 2-0 DR Congo
