Midfield difficulties and pressure in the World Cup knockout round: Five key points ahead of England's match against DR Congo

England face a decisive moment in their World Cup campaign on Wednesday as they enter the knockout stage against the Democratic Republic of Congo. This encounter marks the start of a tough, all-or-nothing period for the team, with the road to glory now a five-match romp in less than three weeks. Here are five key points to look out for ahead of Wednesday's game...

Who will play right back? Coach Thomas Tuchel is having great difficulty choosing a right back. With Reece James out with a hamstring injury and his replacement against Panama, Jarell Quansah, also doubtful due to an ankle injury, Tuchel is left with few options. He will have to choose between Djed Spence, who usually plays at left-back, and Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa, a natural centre-back who could be selected. The situation highlights Tuchel's previous decisions to leave out Trent Alexander-Arnold and replace the injured Tino Livramento with another centre-back, Trevoh Chalobah.

Difficulties in the midfield Upfield, the search for an effective combination of wingers continues. None of Tuchel's four main options have really impressed. Bukayo Saka, making his first start against Panama, faded after a promising start, while Marcus Rashford's final performance was also disappointing despite his early displays of determination. Noni Madueke appears to be preferred on the left wing compared to Anthony Gordon, whose two poor performances may have cost him his chance. Eberechi Eze and Morgan Rogers remain alternatives.

Rice returns as Bellingham advances In midfield, the return of Declan Rice, who sat out the match against Panama due to injury, is expected. His return is expected to cause Jude Bellingham to move back to the No. 10 position, where he previously shone. Bellingham's impact playing in a deeper position during Rice's absence, with a goal and an assist against Panama, showed his versatility. Rice's presence will be vital, especially if England need to take advantage of set-pieces to break down DR Congo's solid defense.

To the knockout round The intensity of the tournament increases as the knockout rounds begin, and England are very aware that every match is now a final. The team is preparing for every possible situation, including extra time and worries about penalty shootouts. Tuchel has said that winning the World Cup will likely include winning at least one penalty shoot-out, although the team will hope to avoid such a situation on Wednesday.

DR Congo is waiting for you While the Democratic Republic of Congo Team looks like a comfortable opponent on paper, they are expected to be a tough challenge. Ranked 41 in the world, the African team held Portugal to a draw in the group stage and will try to make things difficult for England. Their squad features many familiar faces, including Yoane Wissa, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Axel Tuanzebe and Noah Sadiki. Wissa, in particular, will be keen to prove himself against familiar opponents, after an injury-filled first season with Newcastle following his £55m move from Brentford.

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