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Tuchel Announces England XI vs DR Congo, Injuries Thin Defense

7/1/2026

28 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Tuchel Announces XI

Thomas Tuchel announced England’s starting XI for the Round of 32 World Cup match against DR Congo in Atlanta, keeping Rashford on the left wing and adding Madueke, Spence and Rice.
Reece James (hamstring) and Jarell Quansah (ankle) are out, leaving Djed Spence as the only fit right-back.
Ezri Konsa and Marc Guéhi start as centre-backs, with Jordan Pickford staying in goal and saying England are ready for a penalty shootout.

Summary

Tuchel Keeps Luck

Thomas Tuchel said he keeps lucky charms from his daughters and “lucky shoes” from Chelsea’s 2021 Champions League run, fearing bad luck if revealed.
He said recent upsets of Germany and the Netherlands calm his mind and give him an extra edge.
Congolese fans may gather for the Atlanta match despite Ebola bans, with Yoane Wissa saying DR Congo “deserves to play England.”

History

Historical Context

In 1966 England hosted the World Cup and on 30 July defeated West Germany 4–2 at Wembley before 96,924 spectators, securing its only title. The triumph established a legacy that still pressures England’s managers. Now, under German coach Thomas Tuchel, the Three Lions face the round-of-32 in Atlanta at the 2024 World Cup, balancing injuries with new talents.

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Tuchel Announces XI

Thomas Tuchel announced England’s starting XI for the Round of 32 World Cup match against DR Congo in Atlanta, keeping Rashford on the left wing and adding Madueke, Spence and Rice.
Reece James (hamstring) and Jarell Quansah (ankle) are out, leaving Djed Spence as the only fit right-back.
Ezri Konsa and Marc Guéhi start as centre-backs, with Jordan Pickford staying in goal and saying England are ready for a penalty shootout.

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