Rice and Madueke start as England enter knockout football

Round of 16 on the line in Atlanta

It is knockout football and it is here. England face DR Congo in the World Cup last 32 at the Atlanta Stadium, kickoff 17:00 (1) (6). Thomas Tuchel's first real test. No second chances. The winner gets a round of 16 slot. No score yet.

Rice returns, Madueke starts over Saka

Declan Rice is back in the England eleven after sitting out the Panama match (5). Noni Madueke starts ahead of Bukayo Saka, who is being managed carefully on the fitness side (Reddit 1, 3). Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford also get the nod (Reddit 2, 4). The XI looks built for pace and direct running.

Congo's Premier League spine

This is not a mystery opponent. DR Congo bring serious Premier League know-how, Axel Tuanzebe, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Yoane Wissa, Edo Kayembe, Djed Spence (1). Cédric Bakambu leads the line. Noah Sadiki, formerly of Union Saint-Gilloise, gets another chance in midfield (4). England will not be caught by surprise but cannot afford to be casual either.

Fan reactions

The Madueke-for-Saka call is the main talking point in fan circles, some read it as sensible load management, others as a bold knockout gamble. The Rice return is universally welcomed. The match thread energy is tense; everyone knows this is where tournaments actually start. Join the discussion.