England set for Ecuador encounter World Cup 2026 round of 32 fixture dates and times

England's round of 32 opponent at the 2026 World Cup has been confirmed following Group L's conclusion. Thomas Tuchel's side will face the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday, July 1, with a 5pm UK time kick-off.

England finished top of Group L with seven points, defeating Croatia 4-2, drawing 0-0 with Ghana, and beating Panama 2-0. Jude Bellingham scored in the second half against Panama, with Harry Kane heading home a second goal. Kane's header made him England's highest World Cup goalscorer with 11 goals, surpassing Gary Lineker's previous record of 10.

The opponent changed following overnight results. Initially, Ecuador appeared likely to face England, with the match provisionally scheduled for Wednesday, July 1, in Atlanta. However, DR Congo's 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan, featuring two goals from Newcastle striker Yoane Wissa, secured their progression instead, setting up the meeting with England rather than Senegal.

DR Congo earned redemption after 52 years, having last appeared in 1974 when they suffered a 9-0 defeat to Yugoslavia. In the group stage, they held Portugal to a draw before their comeback victory against Uzbekistan. Head coach Sebastien Desabre has transformed the team, instilling discipline and tactical nous.

Tuchel expressed confidence in his squad's ability to step up. "These players are used to these moments," the England manager said. "They know what it takes. We will step up. The bigger the games get, the bigger we will get." With Bellingham delivering crucial performances and Kane becoming England's record World Cup goalscorer, the Three Lions enter the knockout stages with momentum despite mixed performances against lower-ranked sides during the group phase.