The World Cup has entered the knockout phase, where every match carries significant stakes and the tension has intensified considerably. The window for errors and development has closed for the 32 nations remaining in the competition, as teams face elimination with their next loss in the USA, Mexico and Canada, with no further opportunities to recover.
England's Path to the Round of 32
England secured their place in the round of 32 as group leaders and are set to meet DR Congo in their upcoming fixture. While England's 2-0 victory over Panama didn't capture the nation's imagination, it successfully concluded the opening stage requirements. According to the Mirror, the match will be broadcast on BBC.
Full Fixture List for Round of 32
Kick-off times and dates for all World Cup round of 32 fixtures are as follows:
- South Africa vs Canada – Sunday June 28, 8pm – ITV
- Brazil vs Japan – Monday June 29, 6pm – ITV
- Germany vs Paraguay – Monday June 29, 9:30pm – BBC
- Netherlands vs Morocco – Tuesday June 30, 2am – ITV
- Ivory Coast vs Norway – Tuesday June 30, 6pm – BBC
- France vs Sweden – Tuesday June 30, 10pm – ITV
- Mexico vs Ecuador – Wednesday July 1, 2am – ITV
- England vs DR Congo – Wednesday July 1, 5pm – BBC
- Belgium vs Senegal – Wednesday July 1, 9pm – ITV
- USA vs Bosnia – Thursday July 2, 1am – BBC
- Spain vs Austria – Thursday July 2, 8pm – BBC
- Portugal vs Croatia – Friday July 3, 12am – BBC
- Switzerland vs Algeria – Friday July 3, 4am – BBC
- Australia vs Egypt – Friday July 3, 7pm – BBC
- Argentina vs Cape Verde – Friday July 3, 11pm – ITV
- Colombia vs Ghana – Saturday July 4, 2:30am – ITV
Potential Round of 16 and Beyond
Should England see off DR Congo, they'll face either Ecuador or Mexico in the round of 16. Both opponents pose significant challenges, particularly as the match will be held at Mexico City's Azteca Stadium. The legendary venue sits 7,300 feet above sea level, giving a distinct advantage to both the host nation and Ecuador, one of the world's most elevated countries. If England can clear that substantial obstacle, they'll meet one of Brazil, Japan, Ivory Coast or Norway at the Miami Stadium.
Looking ahead to potential semi-final matchups, England could face Cape Verde, Australia, Egypt, Switzerland, Algeria, Colombia, Ghana or defending champions Argentina. Regardless of the path, the pressure will only intensify for Thomas Tuchel's squad.
