Tuchel ready for difficult test against DR Congo

England’s Thomas Tuchel says his team are under no illusions around the test they will face against DR Congo in the Round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The Three Lions arrived in Atlanta on Tuesday evening ahead of their first knockout game in the competition, which pits them against a DR Congo side who finished third in a group containing Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan.

And having had chance to prepare for Wednesday’s match following their progress from the group stage, Tuchel knows what England are going to be up against.

“We expect a similar kind of game like we faced against Ghana and Panama and they’re a physical team, a quick team, a devoted team, very disciplined and well drilled," he said.

“They’re very dangerous in counterattacks, very direct in their approach and not shy to play long balls into the depths to make it a running game and a game of second balls.

“They’re a team that don't allow a lot of chances, and they didn't allow a lot of goals against teams like Colombia and Portugal.

“So that's basically what waits for us - physicality, counter-attack, directness and they’ve already overachieved. I know from experience what it does to a team if you are already in the moment of overachieving and they have genuine belief in what they are doing. That makes them a difficult team to play against.

“We arrive as favourites and then they can play in the role of an underdog, which suits them very well of course, and all this is on the table.

“I think it's just important to accept these things and then focus on what we can influence and be the best version of ourselves.

“We have the team spirit, we have the commitment, we have the quality to turn half chances into chances and to decide this match in maybe a very few key moments.

“We have the quality, we have the trust, we have the belief. But we respect our opponent, and we accept the situation of knockout football, of course.”

Tuchel also revealed that both Reece James and Jarell Quansah will miss the game through injury, but are on course to return should England progress through this round into the Round of 16.

“They're getting closer and closer,” he said.

“Jarell is a little bit ahead of Reece, but the race was close even to make it into the squad this time.

“We need to make sure that we have more matches. That is the main focus and then they will be available very soon.”

With the match set to kick-off at noon in Atlanta and 5pm BST in England, this game represents a better opportunity for some of the team's younger fans back home to watch and cheer on their heroes.

And Tuchel is hoping his team can put on a performance to inspire those who will be tuning in.

“We’d love to entertain them,” he said.

“We don't know what's coming and I don't want to ruin expectations, because of course not everyone wants to play exciting football and front-foot football.

“But it can also be entertaining if you feel the spirit and the energy of the team and for everyone who is allowed to watch tomorrow because they have to go to bed early normally, hopefully they feel the spirit and how much it means to this team.

“I see it every day, I feel it every day and hopefully we can transmit it through the TVs and then make them proud and happy.”