DR Congo will compete against England in the World Cup knockout stage on July 1, 2025, marking their first advancement since 1974. Under head coach Sebastien Desabre, the team qualified for the last 32 after earning a historic draw against Portugal and defeating Uzbekistan 3-1.
This achievement comes 52 years after their debut in the tournament, when they lost all three group matches, including a staggering 9-0 defeat to Yugoslavia.
Desabre has transformed DR Congo, leading them to fourth place at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. His tenure has been marked by a focus on defensive solidity, with the team recording 29 clean sheets in 57 games under his management.
The tactical discipline he has instilled has allowed the team to adapt their formation, shifting from a back five to a 4-4-2 system to secure their progression in the World Cup.
Key players to watch include captain Chancel Mbemba, who is the most-capped player and remains integral to the squad despite limited playing time at his club. Striker Yoane Wissa, who scored three goals in the group stage, has shown his potential after overcoming a serious knee injury that hampered his club career.
Additionally, Cedric Bakambu, the oldest member of the squad at 35, is on the verge of becoming the country’s record goalscorer, having netted four times during the World Cup qualifiers.
While DR Congo's recent performances highlight their resilience, they have struggled against top-ranked teams, having faced only a few in recent years. The majority of the national team’s regular starters have been finding it challenging to secure playing time at their clubs, raising concerns about their conditioning and overall quality.
The match against England will be broadcast live on BBC One, with coverage starting at 16:00 BST. Fans can also listen to the game on BBC Radio 5 Live and follow updates on the BBC Sport website.
This encounter represents a significant moment for DR Congo, as they aim to rewrite their World Cup narrative after decades of struggle.
