Congo coach Desabre is likely to set up a 5-3-2 bus-parking formation, with Wan-Bissaka, Tuanzebe, and Mbenba forming a Premier League-level defense. These players face Kane, Saka, and Rashford in the Premier League every day, so they are very familiar with them.

The real test for the Three Lions is here:

In the group stage against Ghana, England had 78.9% possession but could only draw 0-0 — the old "PTSD against defensive blocks" problem persists. Congo's average possession in the group stage was only 38.5%; parking the bus is their specialty.

Keys to breaking through:

1. Rice's return — the midfield barrier is back, freeing Bellingham to play the No. 10 role.
2. Set pieces — England created many threats from set pieces in the group stage; this is the most effective weapon against a parked bus.
3. Patience — Tuchel said after the match: "If we get carried away and start talking about the next round, we will be punished."

Congo's counterattack relies on Wissa — the Newcastle forward has 3 goals in 3 games and is very fast. But Pickford's goal is not easy to breach.

Prediction: England 2-0 Congo (under 2.5 goals is worth attention)

The process won't be pretty, but the Three Lions will advance to the round of 16 with some drama.
#预测世界杯英格兰VS刚果