World Cup 2026: Why England and Thomas Tuchel should be worried about DR Congo ahead of...

If you're looking for a dark horse in the knockout stages, don't look for one in DR Congo. Look for a Leopard - patient, relentless, and ready to pounce when it matters most. Portugal came away licking their wounds, with weaknesses exposed in their meeting with DR Congo. While Cristiano Ronaldo was shackled by a combination of captain Chancel Mbemba and Burnley's Axel Tuanzebe at the back, Joao Neves' sixth-minute header was Portugal's only shot on target throughout the game. Not only did DR Congo earn a point against Portugal, who entered the competition as one of the pre-tournament favourites, but many observers would be justified in arguing that Sebastien Desabre's side deserved to leave with all three points after an impressive display. Yoane Wissa's headed goal came in a brave DR Congo performance. Colombia posed a different kind of test, and although DR Congo eventually succumbed to late pressure, their identity was unmistakable: defend first, ask questions later. DR Congo's defence appeared more vulnerable in Guadalajara, but they could rely on an inspired Lionel Mpasi goalkeeping display to keep Colombia's heavy hitters at bay. Victory over Uzbekistan marked the greatest moment in DR Congo's footballing history, propelling the Leopards into uncharted territory. In the nation's first-ever taste of knockout football at the World Cup, England represent a free-hit for the Leopards that they will be keen to take. Why Congo's style could trouble England DR Congo are not a side designed to entertain; they are a nation built to avoid losing and biding their time. The defence is where Desabre has placed his focus during his reign. Under his four-year stewardship, DR Congo have never been beaten by more than one goal. For context, Thomas Tuchel, who took charge of England last year, has already suffered a two-goal defeat, losing 3-1 to Senegal. DR Congo find success during low-scoring games with Desabre's side scoring one goal or fewer in two-thirds of their matches. In the opening two games, against Portugal and Colombia, Desabre set his side up with a back five, three workmen in the middle and a front two. Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Arthur Masuaku, deployed as wing-backs, were more disciplined than adventurous. Despite providing the team's width, the creative responsibility largely fell to the midfield. DR Congo are more than happy to surrender possession, inviting opponents onto their resolute defensive block before striking when the opportunity arises. The inquest into England's lack of creativity, inspiration or energy in attacking areas continues despite their 2-0 win over Panama. According to FIFA's style metrics, England are one of just four teams whose playing style differs most from that of DR Congo. The blueprint has already been laid by Ghana, and it's one that Desabre and Congo are well-versed in. As the game progressed against the Ghanaians, England's lack of penetration offered hope to the Black Stars, who couldn't make use of their moments on the counterattack. On a quest to fix that, don't expect Tuchel to find easy prey to remedy that against the stubborn DR Congo. Don't underestimate Congo's attack DR Congo's conservative style doesn't take away from their threat in attack, though. Wissa has three goals in the competition so far, matching Harry Kane's tally and more than Ronaldo's return. After finding the net in the curtain-raiser, Wissa struck twice against Uzbekistan to take his tally to three goals in three games - already surpassing his Newcastle output threefold after his £55m move to the Magpies. In truth, Wissa's involvement after missing the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as part of a good gesture to Newcastle has been more than welcome. Alongside the 29-year-old, Desabre has opted to play Real Betis striker Cedric Bakambu, who is yet to register a shot on target at the World Cup, as his personal goalscoring issues continue. Against Uzbekistan, Desabre added a new dimension to the attack with Fiston Mayele when he replaced Bakambu. Earlier this season, the Pyramids forward was named the men's Interclub African Player of the Year. The award recognises the best African player who plays their football within the continent. He added something that Bakambu couldn't provide, which was composure in front of goal, necessary in a game of few chances. Desabre's adaptability had been questioned in the build-up to DR Congo's match against Uzbekistan. However, a switch to a flat back fou