England's World Cup journey is set to get a whole lot tougher as they face DR Congo in the last-32 showdown – a match-up that promises to be nothing short of thrilling! Football experts Kieran Jackson and Miguel Delaney have been crunching the numbers, and their verdict is clear: do not, under any circumstances, underestimate this African giant.
The tournament has already served up its fair share of shocks, with top dogs Germany and Netherlands sent packing in the knockout stages. It's a wake-up call for European football's heavyweights – but also an opportunity for England to learn from their mistakes. How can Thomas Tuchel adapt his tactics to counter DR Congo's strengths? The key might lie in unleashing his wingers and full-backs, who have the pace and precision to cause mayhem on the flanks.
But while European teams are struggling to come to terms with the new world order, France is taking centre stage. Their demolition of Sweden – a 3-0 thrashing that showcased their clinical efficiency – has cemented their status as one of the tournament's top contenders. England will be keen to replicate this level of performance, but DR Congo have other ideas.
The 'Copa Independent' podcast also touched on the USA's last-32 tie against Bosnia and Herzegovina, where American fans are rubbing their hands in anticipation of a positive result. Will the momentum swing England's way? Only time will tell – but one thing is for certain: this World Cup has been all about underdogs rising to the top!