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Story perspectives

DR Congo ends 52-year drought, faces England.

7/1/2026

32 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

DR Congo qualified for World Cup knockout stage for the first time in 52 years and will meet England in the round of 32 at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium on July 1, 2026.
England coach Thomas Tuchel will start Djed Spence after Reece James suffered a hamstring injury and Jarell Quansau an ankle injury.
Coach Sébastien Desabre will line up a 5-3-2 formation with Yoane Wissa and Samuel Moutoussamy to test England’s attack.

History

Historical Context

In 1990 Cameroon became the first African nation to reach the World Cup quarter-finals, beating Argentina and Colombia before losing to England. Their surprise run convinced FIFA to grant the CAF region one extra qualification spot for the next tournament. DR Congo’s 2026 qualification echoes that breakthrough, showing Africa’s growing presence on football’s biggest stage.

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Story summary

DR Congo qualified for World Cup knockout stage for the first time in 52 years and will meet England in the round of 32 at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium on July 1, 2026.
England coach Thomas Tuchel will start Djed Spence after Reece James suffered a hamstring injury and Jarell Quansau an ankle injury.
Coach Sébastien Desabre will line up a 5-3-2 formation with Yoane Wissa and Samuel Moutoussamy to test England’s attack.

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