World Cup 2026: Caught cold by DRC, England wants to avoid humiliation

In a stunning turn of events at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, the Democratic Republic of Congo has taken a surprising 1-0 lead against England in their 2026 World Cup Round of 16 clash. The match, which kicked off with high expectations for England, has seen an early upset.

The opening goal came in the 7th minute, courtesy of Cipenga for the DRC. The goal stemmed from a significant defensive error by England, involving both Spence and goalkeeper Pickford, who was beaten at the near post. This early setback has put England, who were already reportedly in doubt, in a precarious position.

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Huge surprise in Atlanta! Cipenga opens the scoring for DRC against England. What an error from the English defense, first from Spence, then from Pickford, who is beaten at the near post. The English are trailing from the 7th minute of play.

The English team appears to be struggling with nerves, a sentiment underscored when Jude Bellingham received a yellow card for a rash tackle in the 19th minute. Goalkeeper Pickford has also shown discomfort with the ball at his feet. A cooling break was called around the 23rd minute, offering England a chance to regroup and perhaps settle their apparent jitters.

England, who won the World Cup in 1966, have not reached the final since their home victory. Their best performances in recent tournaments include reaching the semifinals in 1990 and 2018, and the quarterfinals in 2022. The DRC, in contrast, is having a notable run in their second World Cup appearance, having been eliminated in the first round in 1974.

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The English are completely tétanisés in defense, especially Pickford, who is still uncomfortable with his feet. After losing the ball in midfield, leading to a counter-attack for DRC, Jude Bellingham commits a nasty foul with a big tackle and receives a logical yellow card. Be careful not to lose your nerve (already)...