What you need to know about England's opponents DR Congo

A significant story is unfolding on the international scene. What you need to know about England's opponents DR CongoImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Yoane Wissa has now scored three goals for DR Congo in this World CupByNoel SlineyBBC Sport senior journalistPublished7 hours agoGet the lowdown on DR Congo, England's World Cup opponents in the round of 32. What can I expect from DR Congo? Fifty-two years after a chastening World Cup debut, DR Congo have earned redemption by qualifying for the knockout stages for the first time.

Back in 1974, when known as Zaire, their three group defeats included a 9-0 hammering by Yugoslavia. They had not been to a World Cup since, until now, but head coach Sebastien Desabre has transformed a team who were in crisis when he took over nearly four years ago. He led them to fourth place at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and has instilled discipline and tactical nous.

The Details

A back five was trialled just before the World Cup and maintained for the first two games of the tournament, which included a draw with Portugal, before they switched to 4-4-2 to beat Uzbekistan. What are DR Congo's strengths? Defensive solidity has underpinned their improvement, as shown by 29 clean sheets in 57 games under Desabre.

Since he took charge, DR Congo have never lost by more than a one-goal margin when able to call on Europe-based players. Swift counter-attacks utilise the prowess of strikers Cedric Bakambu and Yoane Wissa at running in behind opposition defences. Mental resilience, often lacking in the past, was forged during a protracted qualifying campaign which included three play-off matches.

And what about their weaknesses? DR Congo have seldom faced top-20 ranked sides in recent years, bar Senegal and Morocco – and they have a poor record against both. With the majority of the national team's regular starters struggling for playing time at their clubs in 2025-26, a lack of conditioning – and quality – is a concern.

What Experts Say

How might DR Congo line up? Which players should I look out for? Central defender Chancel Mbemba, 31, is the team's captain and most-capped player.

He remains integral to his country despite two seasons as a peripheral figure with clubs in France. The former Newcastle player is out of contract with Lille this summer. Belgium-born Noah Sadiki has added dynamism to DR Congo's midfield since earning his first cap in September 2024, albeit he was a surprise omission from their first two World Cup games.

The 21-year-old has been a £15m revelation for Sunderland with his energy, athleticism and ball-carrying ability. Yoane Wissa's 2025-26 campaign never got going after joining Newcastle in a deal worth up to £55m. A serious knee injury delayed his debut and he only made eight starts in all competitions.

The story has become one of the most prominent items on the global agenda.