England have secured their place in the World Cup 2026 knockout stages by winning Group L with seven points from three matches. Thomas Tuchel's side drew with Ghana but defeated Croatia and Panama to top the group, advancing ahead of DR Congo in second place. This marks their progression to the round of 32 where they face the Congolese team in Atlanta on July 1.

DR Congo, ranked 46th globally, qualified third in Group K after drawing with Portugal, losing to Colombia, and beating Uzbekistan. They conceded only three goals across their group matches and feature Premier League players including Yoane Wissa and Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The Leopards are making their first knockout stage appearance, having previously competed under the name Zaire in 1974. They were eliminated from the Africa Cup of Nations by Algeria in January.

If England advances, they could meet Mexico on July 6 in Mexico City's Estadio Azteca, which sits over 7,000 feet above sea level. Mexico won all three group matches and remain unbeaten in 12 competitive fixtures since November 2024. Quarter-final potential opponents include Brazil, featuring Vinicius Jr., along with Ivory Coast and Norway, with Erling Haaland leading the Norwegian attack.

England's semi-final route could pit them against defending champions Argentina, led by 39-year-old Lionel Messi, who scored five goals in the group stage. The July 19 final in New Jersey would be England's third major tournament final of the decade if they reach that stage, following previous appearances in 2018 and 2021.