England Moves Toward Final Four After DR Congo Win

England secured a place in the last 16 with a dramatic comeback against DR Congo, thanks to Harry Kane’s brace in the final 15 minutes. The 2‑1 victory highlights the Three Lions’ resilience after falling behind and keeps their dream of a third major‑tournament final alive this decade. The win was a statement of intent heading into the knockout stage.

Next Opponent: Mexico at the Azteca

England’s next test comes at the iconic Azteca Stadium against Mexico on Monday, 6 July at 02:00 BST, broadcast live on BBC. Mexico’s record at the venue is impressive, with 70 wins from 89 games and only two defeats; they remain unbeaten in ten World Cup matches there. Their current form is equally strong, four clean‑sheet victories and eight goals in the tournament.

The altitude could be a factor; the Azteca sits over 7,000 ft above sea level, potentially causing breathing issues and fatigue for players not accustomed to it. Mexico’s unbeaten run stretches 13 matches since a November 2024 defeat to Honduras. A high‑energy first‑half display saw them rout Ecuador, establishing a two‑goal cushion early in their last‑32 clash.

Quarter‑Final Possibility: Norway

If England beat Mexico, a quarter‑final clash with Norway looms. Norway eliminated Brazil 2‑1 and finished second in Group I behind France, marking their best World Cup performance. Erling Haaland leads the scoring chart with seven goals, level with Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi, despite missing the final group game.

Haaland’s haul puts him on 62 goals in 54 caps, making him a genuine threat for England’s defense. Norway’s momentum and Haaland’s form could pose a significant hurdle for the Three Lions should they progress.

Semi‑Final Outlook

Should England reach the semi‑final, the stage could shift to Miami, echoing the atmosphere of their earlier knockout victory in Atlanta. Argentina, who topped their group and remain favourites to advance, could be waiting in the other half of the draw. Argentina’s dominance sees Lionel Messi become the all‑time World Cup top scorer, surpassing Miroslav Klose after netting against Austria.

The 39‑year‑old continued his late‑career resurgence with five goals so far this tournament. A quarter‑final meeting with Colombia is possible, as both sides look to advance. Colombia, who topped their group, face Switzerland in the last 16, while the Swiss have grown into the tournament and won their first knockout game in 88 years.

Envisioning the Final

All 16 teams in the opposite half of the draw are potential final opponents for England. Strong sides such as France, Spain and Morocco are among the contenders England would not wish to meet before the championship match. If both France and Morocco win their quarter‑finals, they will meet each other, leaving other pathways open for England’s ultimate opponent. The final will be held in New Jersey before 82,500 fans.

The path to the final is still wide open, and every match could become a defining moment for England’s campaign. Staying focused on the immediate challenge against Mexico will be key as the Three Lions chase a return to the summit of world football.