England news

Harry Kane and England have been left furious after the striker was denied a penalty in the closing stages of the first half against DR Congo. The referee waved away the appeals, suggesting Kane had dived, sparking a massive debate among pundits like Alan Shearer and Wayne Rooney. Some claimed it was a clear foul, while others praised the referee for ignoring the dive.

Declan Rice is “world-class” already, former Arsenal midfielder Stefan Schwarz has told GOAL, with the Gunners star considered to boast a special quality that makes him a potential Ballon d’Or contender of the future. England international Rice is hoping to come into contention for that prize while chasing down more major honours with club and country.

England take on DR Congo in the Round of 32. Here’s how you can secure World Cup tickets

Ashley Cole has announced his departure from Serie B side Cesena, bringing an abrupt end to his first head coaching role after just three months. The former England international decided to step down following internal discussions regarding the club’s future direction.

Comprehensive match preview of England vs DR Congo at the World Cup 2026. We talk tactics, team news, and more ahead of this Round of 32 clash in Atlanta.

How to watch the World Cup match between England and DR Congo, as well as kick-off time and team news

Declan Rice believes the current England squad features the best penalty takers the nation has ever seen. Ahead of a World Cup round of 32 clash against DR Congo, the midfielder expressed absolute confidence in his team-mates' abilities. While acknowledging past nerves, he insists the group is fully prepared for a shootout if required under Thomas Tuchel.

Noni Madueke has expressed his absolute bewilderment at anyone doubting Jude Bellingham, labelling the England superstar as a world-class talent after a stellar World Cup. The winger insists that the Real Madrid midfielder always delivers on the biggest stages, and his unplayable display against Panama was just business as usual for the Three Lions.

It hasn't always been pretty, but England have achieved their aim of winning their World Cup group to set up a favourable last-32 tie. They will face DR Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday after eventually seeing off Panama last time out, but form and fitness mean Thomas Tuchel's team selection is far from certain as the knockout stage gets underway.

Declan Rice has provided a positive update on his fitness as England prepare for their 2026 World Cup last-32 clash with DR Congo in Atlanta. The Arsenal midfielder was a notable absentee from the final group stage win over Panama, sparking fears that Thomas Tuchel could be without his midfield anchor for the start of the knockout rounds.

Michael Owen has sensationally labelled Harry Kane as England's greatest-ever striker, admitting he was wrong to previously doubt the forward's natural finishing ability. However, the former Three Lions star believes Kane made a significant tactical error by choosing to join Bayern Munich instead of chasing records in the Premier League.

Jordan Pickford has sounded a defiant battle cry ahead of England's World Cup knockout campaign, claiming the squad is prepared to "go to war" for manager Thomas Tuchel. The Three Lions are looking to build on their group stage momentum as they prepare for a high-stakes last-32 encounter against DR Congo in North America.

Jude Bellingham has revealed he would love to play James Bond once his football career comes to an end. The England star, who has impressed at the 2026 World Cup, admitted he is a huge fan of the iconic spy franchise and even joked that he could one day land the starring role.