England's Harry Kane and teammates warm up during a training session. (AFP)
Doha, Qatar: England’s quest for a first FIFA World Cup title since 1966 enters its most decisive phase today as the Three Lions take on a history-chasing DR Congo side competing in the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time, with a place in the last 16 at stake.
Thomas Tuchel’s men have progressed through the group stage unbeaten, but they know the margin for error has now disappeared. Knockout football offers no second chances, and England will be wary of a DR Congo side that has already shown it can trouble one of Europe’s heavyweights.
The Leopards announced themselves on the world stage by holding Portugal to a 1-1 draw in their opening Group G fixture before suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to South American side Colombia.
Facing elimination, they produced when it mattered most, defeating Uzbekistan 3-1 to secure a historic place in the knockout rounds as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.
It marks the first time DR Congo have reached the knockout stage of the World Cup, making today’s encounter the biggest match in the nation’s football history.
England, meanwhile, lived up to expectations by finishing top of Group L with seven points.
A commanding 4-2 victory over Croatia was followed by a frustrating goalless draw against Ghana before a composed 2-0 win over Panama ensured they advanced as group winners.
England have never lost to African opposition at the World Cup, recording five victories and four draws, yet Ghana demonstrated how disciplined and organised African teams can frustrate even the tournament favourites.
Sebastien Desabre’s men arrive carrying similar belief after proving against Portugal they are capable of competing with the world’s elite.
Captain Harry Kane has once again led England’s attack with three goals in the group stage, while Jude Bellingham has underlined his importance with two goals and an assist.
The pair remains central to Tuchel’s hopes of guiding England deep into the tournament.
DR Congo possess threats of their own. Premier League duo Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Noah Sadiki have brought valuable experience to the side, while Brentford forward Yoane Wissa has been the Leopards’ attacking talisman.
His two-goal performance against Uzbekistan propelled his country into the knockout stage.
England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford believes the tournament now enters its defining stage.
“It ramps up now, doesn’t it, it’s a proper phase of football. One game at a time. There are lads who have won Champions Leagues, lads who have been in youth tournaments with England. Everyone knows the pressure of it and I think that is where you will see us thrive.”
Wissa, meanwhile, insists DR Congo have earned the right to test themselves against one of football’s traditional powers.
“England next is gonna be a different game, a tough, tough game against top players, top opponents. We need to enjoy this type of game. We deserve to play against England, one of the best teams in the world, so I’m looking forward to what’s coming next.”
With either co-hosts Mexico or Ecuador awaiting the winners in the Round of 16, both sides have every incentive to seize the moment.
England remain favourites on paper and anything less than victory would rank among the tournament’s biggest disappointments.
DR Congo, meanwhile, have already exceeded expectations by reaching the knockout stage for the first time and can approach the contest with far less pressure. After frustrating Portugal and keeping their World Cup dream alive, the fearless Leopards will believe they are capable of producing another memorable result against the Three Lions.
