World Cup Knockout Highlights: USMNT Starts Strong; DR Congo Eyes Upset Over England
The World Cup knockout rounds press on this Wednesday, July 1, with three gripping matches shaping the Round of 32. Here’s what to focus on during this crucial phase of the tournament.
England vs. DR Congo
When: 12 p.m. ETWhere: AtlantaBroadcast: FoxOdds: England -850, DR Congo +540
Two surprising teams—Cape Verde and DR Congo—have caught attention in this knockout stage. DR Congo earned their spot by coming from behind against Uzbekistan, setting up a tough clash with England, who topped Group L. Thomas Tuchel's squad will have Declan Rice back after resting him due to a minor calf issue. England's defense faces uncertainty as Reece James and Jarell Quansah deal with injuries.
Sébastien Desabre’s DR Congo side has shown resilience, overcoming deficits in all three group matches to secure four points and advance. Les Léopards could pull off a shock. The victor will meet Mexico at Estadio Azteca on Sunday.
Belgium vs. Senegal
When: 4 p.m. ETWhere: SeattleBroadcast: FS1Odds: Belgium -178, Senegal +144
Belgium’s golden generation looks to make one last push in this tournament. Veterans like goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, and striker Romelu Lukaku, key players from their 2018 third-place run, lead the Red Devils. After winning Group G, they face Senegal, who struggled early but bounced back impressively with a 5-0 win over Iraq to reach the knockouts.
Senegal hasn't been consistently strong yet remains dangerous. The winner advances to face the USMNT or Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 6 in Seattle.
USA vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina
When: 8 p.m. ETWhere: Santa Clara, CaliforniaBroadcast: FoxOdds: USA -750, Bosnia +500
The USMNT enjoys robust home support at Levi's Stadium after claiming top spot in Group D. Mauricio Pochettino’s team is expected to field a lineup similar to their match against Australia, following several changes in the final group game versus Türkiye.
Bosnia and Herzegovina impressed by ousting Italy in the playoffs and finishing third in Group B after drawing Canada and defeating Qatar. The winner here faces Belgium or Senegal next.
