England Predicted Lineup to Face DR Congo – Superstar to Return from Injury

After three gruelling World Cup group games, England made it to the last 32, finishing top of their group with seven points. They’ll take on DR Congo in the last 32 – but who will be in their XI?

A couple of potential starters are set to miss out with injury, unfortunately. However, one of the Three Lions’ top stars is set to make his return – but who is it? Let’s find out.

GK: Jordan Pickford

We’re starting to sound – and feel – like a broken record. Yes, Jordan Pickford will keep his spot in the team, of course he will, blah blah blah.

In fairness, Pickford probably had his best game of the 2026 World Cup so far against Panama, being tested much more than many thought he would.

RB: Djed Spence

Djed Spence is almost guaranteed to start against DR Congo on Wednesday evening. With Reece James’ World Cup possibly being over after suffering a hamstring injury [via Sky Sports], Spence is now England’s first-choice right-back.

On top of this, according to The Guardian, Jarell Quansah might also miss out. England are now looking very thin in that role – hopefully, Spence can deliver.

CB: Ezri Konsa

One of few England players to have played in every minute of the World Cup so far, we’d be very surprised to see Ezri Konsa being dropped at this stage.

The Three Lions have conceded just two goals over the course of three World Cup games thus far – with Konsa at the heart of their defence, Thomas Tuchel hasn’t been given a reason to ditch him just yet.

CB: Marc Guehi

One of England’s best players at the World Cup so far, the Three Lions have yet to concede a goal while Marc Guehi has been on the pitch.

We can’t see any reason at all why he won’t start against DR Congo. They have some quick players who look to break at speed – the pace and power of Guehi will be crucial in containing their counter-attacking threat.