England are set to face DR Congo in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026, marking the first ever meeting between the two nations. The match is scheduled to take place in the knockout stage of the tournament, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
DR Congo, nicknamed the Leopards, qualified for the World Cup by finishing as runners-up in Group B of the CAF qualifiers. They are competing in their second World Cup, having previously appeared in 1974 as Zaire. Their head coach is Sebastien Desabre, who has led the team since 2022.
England, managed by Gareth Southgate, advanced from Group D as winners. The Three Lions are aiming to improve on their quarterfinal finish in 2022 and have a strong squad featuring key players like Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham.
This fixture is a historic first between the two sides, with no previous competitive or friendly matches recorded. The exact date and venue for the Round of 32 tie have not yet been confirmed by FIFA as of June 28, 2026.
