England have secured top spot in Group L at the 2026 World Cup and will face DR Congo in the Round of 32 in Atlanta on Wednesday, July 1 at 5pm BST. The Three Lions topped the group with seven points after a 4-2 win over Croatia, a 0-0 draw with Ghana, and a victory over Panama.
Round of 32: DR Congo
England's first knockout opponent is DR Congo, who advanced as one of the best third-placed sides. Yoane Wissa starred as the Leopards came from behind to beat Uzbekistan, setting up the clash. The match takes place at 5pm BST on Wednesday, July 1 in Atlanta.
Alternative Scenarios
Had England finished second in Group L, they would have travelled to Toronto to face the second-placed side from Group K, likely Portugal, on Friday, July 3 at 12am BST. If they had finished third but still qualified as one of the eight best third-placed teams, they would have headed to Kansas City to face the winner of Group K, currently Colombia.
Round of 16: Mexico
Should England beat DR Congo, a potentially historic showdown with Mexico awaits at the legendary Estadio Azteca stadium on Monday, July 6 at 1am BST.
Quarter-Final: Brazil
A quarter-final on Saturday, July 11 at 10pm BST would pit England against Brazil, the five-time winners, should they advance that far.
Semi-Final: Argentina
A semi-final on Wednesday, July 15 at 8pm BST would likely see England face Lionel Messi's Argentina.
Final: Spain
The final on Sunday, July 19 at 8pm BST could deliver a repeat of the Euro 2024 final, which England lost to Spain.
