England have kicked off their World Cup knockout stage campaign against DR Congo in Atlanta, with several key players sidelined due to injury. Manager Thomas Tuchel confirmed that Reece James and Jarell Quansah are out, while Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka are nursing fitness concerns. Djed Spence starts at right-back, and Noni Madueke is preferred over Saka on the wing.
Injury Woes and Team Selection
Tuchel revealed that James and Quansah were close to returning but missed the match. "They are getting closer and closer. I saw both of them on the pitch. Jarell is a little bit ahead of Reece in the nature of the injury," he said. The expected England XI includes Jordan Pickford in goal, with a back four of Spence, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, and Nico O'Reilly. Rice partners Elliot Anderson in midfield, while Jude Bellingham plays as the No. 10. Madueke and Marcus Rashford flank Harry Kane up front.
Atmosphere and Support
John Cross, reporting from Atlanta, described the atmosphere as electric, with an estimated 80% of the stadium filled with England supporters. "The backing England receives from its supporters is extraordinary — and today it is nothing short of breathtaking," he wrote. Despite the heat outside, the air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz Stadium provided a comfortable environment. Long queues formed at the FIFA store as fans soaked in the World Cup experience.
Mexico fans were also spotted in the crowd, potentially scouting England as their potential Round of 16 opponents. Mexico defeated Ecuador 2-0 earlier to win their group, setting up a possible clash at the Azteca Stadium.
Key Players and Threats
DR Congo's main threat is Yoane Wissa, who has scored three goals at the tournament and was instrumental in their win over Uzbekistan. Other notable players include Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Noah Sadiki, and Axel Tuanzebe. DR Congo has held Denmark and Senegal to draws recently, indicating they are no pushovers.
Alan Shearer, providing commentary for the BBC, predicted a 2-1 England victory with goals from Harry Kane and Declan Rice. He praised the pitch conditions but noted England's need for more creativity in wide positions.
Knockout Stage Context
England are looking to avoid the fate of Germany and the Netherlands, who were eliminated on penalties by Paraguay and Morocco respectively. Brazil narrowly avoided defeat with a last-minute winner against Japan. The winner of this match will face Mexico in the next round.
Scotland fans were spotted supporting DR Congo, adding a lighthearted twist to the occasion. Four Scottish fans wearing kilts inside the stadium expressed their hope for a Congo victory, with one joking, "It's been very good spirited — so far."
