"That is the nature of knockout football", Tuchel stated during a press conference on June 30 before the match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta. "Games like the Netherlands versus Morocco or Brazil versus Japan could easily be quarter-finals or semi-finals in any tournament due to their high quality".

In the four recent round of 16 matches, France was the only favorite to demonstrate strength, crushing Sweden 3-0. Meanwhile, Brazil struggled to come from behind, winning against Japan in the 6th minute of injury time. The Netherlands lost to Morocco, and Germany was defeated by a lower-ranked Paraguay in a penalty shootout.

Coach Thomas Tuchel smiles during a press conference before England's match against Ghana in Group L of the World Cup 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts, near Boston, My on 22/6. *Photo: AP*

Tuchel views these outcomes as proof that matches are decided by "very fine margins", with many teams settling results in the final moments or via penalty shootouts. "It helps us stay calmer and not expect too much", he added.

According to the German coach, the early elimination of title contenders is a reminder that no match is easy at the World Cup, especially when underdog teams play with a nothing-to-lose mentality. "Teams are well-organized, defend at a high level, and are very difficult to break down, especially when you are the favored side", he explained. "It is important to accept the circumstances and maintain a strong mentality".

Highlights from England's 2-0 victory over Panama in the World Cup 2026 group stage.

DR Congo, ranked 46th in the world, boasts many experienced key players currently playing in Europe. These include captain Chancel Mbemba (Lille), forwards Cedric Bakambu (Real Betis) and Yoane Wissa (Newcastle), defender Arthur Masuaku (Lens), and former Manchester United duo Axel Tuanzebe and Aaron Wan-Bissaka. However, this team will likely continue to play a defensive counter-attacking style, which helped them draw 1-1 with Portugal in the group stage.

Tuchel believes England is under significant pressure to win but must not rush, especially when facing an opponent prone to playing deep and compactly. He warned that finding a way to penetrate a low defensive block can make the game tense and easily disrupt rhythm if players lack patience.

Highlights from DR Congo's 1-1 draw with Portugal in the group stage.

At the club level, Tuchel has managed major teams such as Dortmund, PSG, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich. The 51-year-old coach compared the match against DR Congo to early rounds of domestic cups or early Champions League knockout games. He stressed that England needs to patiently wear down their opponents, depleting their stamina and concentration before seeking opportunities to finish the game.

Regarding squad selection, Tuchel confirmed Declan Rice will return to midfield. Djed Spence is likely to start at right-back due to Reece James's injury, and he left open the possibility of Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford playing as wing forwards.

Hong Duy (according to ESPN, The Guardian)