Why Did England Struggle Against DR Congo – and What Can They Learn?

A tactical analysis of England's victory over DR Congo reveals midfield issues and attacking inefficiency. Lessons for the upcoming World Cup match against Mexico are explored.

England secured a 2-1 win over DR Congo in their latest World Cup group stage match, but the scoreline flattered the performance. Despite taking all three points, Gareth Southgate's side struggled to impose themselves against a well-organized opponent, raising questions about their ability to break down compact defenses. With a crucial match against Mexico looming, England must address several tactical shortcomings. The most glaring issue was England's lack of midfield control. DR Congo deployed a 5-4-1 formation, packing the midfield and cutting off passing lanes. Declan Rice and Kalvin Phillips worked hard defensively but offered little in possession, often resorting to sideways passes. England enjoyed 65% possession in the first half, yet created few clear-cut chances. The midfield duo failed to link effectively with the forwards, leaving Harry Kane isolated. Wide play also proved ineffective. Raheem Sterling and Bukayo Saka attempted numerous dribbles but were consistently double-teamed by DR Congo's full-backs and midfielders. England's cross completion rate was a mere 18%, well below tournament average. Worse, the team's transition defense was sluggish; DR Congo's goal came from a swift counter-attack, catching England's backline out of position. Forward Mbemba finished clinically after a long ball over the top. Southgate made tactical adjustments in the second half, introducing Jack Grealish and Phil Foden and switching to a 4-2-3-1 formation. The changes paid off: Grealish's dribbling drew defenders, creating space for Kane to score in the 67th minute. Foden's long-range shot then forced a rebound that Kane converted. However, both goals relied on individual brilliance rather than cohesive team play. Looking ahead to Mexico, the challenge is different. Mexico employs high pressing and quick passing, with midfielders like Héctor Herrera and Andrés Guardado adept at retaining possession. If England's midfield struggles again, Mexico's press could force turnovers in dangerous areas. Additionally, wingers Hirving Lozano and Jesús Corona possess pace and trickery, testing England's full-backs. On the positive side, England's defensive organization remains solid. Harry Maguire and John Stones dominated aerial duels, while Jordan Pickford made crucial saves. However, against Mexico's intricate ground play, England must maintain compactness between the lines to prevent through-balls. To improve, Southgate could consider starting Mason Mount to enhance midfield creativity, or instruct Kane to drop deeper, allowing wingers to cut inside. The Mexico match will be a true test of England's adaptability. Learning from the DR Congo game is essential if they hope to advance deep into the tournament.

Why Did England Struggle Against DR Congo – and What Can They Learn?

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