England Faces Congo DR in 2026 World Cup Knockout Stage: Odds and Predictions

England is set to face Congo DR in a highly anticipated Round of 32 match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Three Lions enter the knockout stage as group winners, aiming to continue their strong tournament performance. Congo DR, making their first-ever appearance in the knockout rounds, will be looking to cause an upset.

Match Details

The Round of 32 fixture is scheduled to kick off at noon ET on Tuesday in Atlanta. England, currently ranked fourth in the FIFA rankings, are seeking their first World Cup title since 1966, having previously finished fourth in 1990 and 2018. Congo DR’s progression to this stage marks a significant achievement for the team.

Betting Odds

FanDuel Sportsbook has positioned England as strong favorites in the 90-minute money line market, listed at -370. Congo DR is an underdog at +1300, with a draw available at +420. For progression to the next round, England is priced at -800, while Congo DR is at +520. The over/under for total goals in the match is set at 2.5.

Expert Analysis and Predictions

SportsLine’s Martin Green, a seasoned soccer writer and handicapper with a proven track record in various betting markets, has provided his insights for the England vs. Congo DR clash. Green has recently been successful with his World Cup picks, boasting a 10-5 record and significant profit returns.

Green is leaning towards an Under 2.5 total goals in the match, with odds at -120. He anticipates a defensive struggle, noting that both teams have demonstrated stinginess in defense during the group stages. Congo DR conceded three goals, while England let in just two.

“Ghana and Panama both frustrated England by sitting in a low block, so it would make sense for DR Congo to follow suit,” Green commented. “They have strong defenders like Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Chancel Mbemba, and Axel Tuanzebe, who will fight for every ball. It could be a tense, game for the England fans.”

Green has identified a critical x-factor for the match and has detailed a pair of best bets, which are available for subscribers on SportsLine.

Key facts

This match presents an interesting narrative as a dominant European power faces an emerging African contender in the high-stakes environment of the World Cup knockout stage. Football fans will be keen to see if Congo DR can replicate the defensive resilience that troubled England in the group stages and whether England can break down a well-organized defense. The expert prediction of a low-scoring affair suggests a potentially cagey tactical battle.

Source: CBS Sports Soccer RSS – https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/england-congo-dr-odds-prediction-start-time-2026-world-cup-round-of-32-picks/