KANSAS CITY, MO – JUNE 30: England number 25 Jed Spence takes part in drills during an England national team training session one day ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 match between England and the Democratic Republic of the Congo at Swope Soccer Village in Kansas City, Missouri on June 30, 2026. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
England bring on former Genoa right-back Jed Spence, with Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice and Harry Kane looking to defeat the Democratic Republic of Congo in the World Cup Round of 32.
The match kicks off in Atlanta at 17:00 UK time (18:00 CET) with the winner facing Mexico in the round of 16.
Thomas Tuchel’s side have struggled to impress in competitions in the United States, Canada and Mexico. After defeating Croatia in a thrilling 4-2 match, they were trailed 0-0 by Ghana and it took a long time for them to finally beat Panama 2-0.
Therefore, it could be a difficult test as the Democratic Republic of the Congo also prefers to defend and narrow down the spaces.
They drew 1-1 against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal, narrowly lost 1-0 against Colombia, and won 3-1 against Fabio Cannavaro’s Uzbekistan, advancing to the group stage.
England have been forced to make changes after Tino Libramento was ruled out before the start of the tournament, followed by injuries to both right-backs Reece James and Jarrell Quansah.
Former Genoa full-back Spence was mainly used on the left for Tottenham last season, but has now been drafted to start on the right.
Rice passed comfortably into the starting lineup after dealing with a long-term illness, but Bukayo Saka was left out in favor of Arsenal teammate Noni Madueke.
Congo DR’s squad includes Cremona midfielder Charles Pickel, who spent the season on loan at Espanyol.
England vs Democratic Republic of the Congo line-up
England: Pickford; Spence, Konsa, Guehi, O’Reilly. Anderson, Rice. Maduke, Bellingham, Rashford. Kane
Democratic Republic of the Congo: Mpasi; Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Masuaku. Sadiki, Muthusamy. Mbuku, mukau, shipenga. Wisa
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