England secured a 2-1 victory over DR Congo in the World Cup last 32, advancing to the round of 16 where they will face tournament co-hosts Mexico at the Azteca Stadium on Monday, July 6, 2026.
Harry Kane scored twice to prevent an upset, preserving England's campaign and easing pressure on head coach Thomas Tuchel, according to BBC Sport.
The match will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, alongside three other selected last-16 fixtures.
Despite the win, England's performances have revealed squad weaknesses, particularly at right-back and in creative midfield, after Tuchel excluded players like Cole Palmer and Phil Foden.
Former England captain Alan Shearer highlighted defensive vulnerabilities.
"Defensively there were far too many holes in the back four, and when we did give chances away, they scored from their first one, should have scored with the Yoane Wissa one," he said.
Shearer noted that moving Declan Rice to right-back provided a spark for the comeback.
"Putting Declan Rice to right-back worked because he was the one that got forward and played a part in the equaliser, so Tuchel has a decision to make," he said.
He admitted initial reluctance but acknowledged the shift added quality.
"If you asked me before the game I would have been very reluctant, but he can add a little bit of quality where we have lacked with the players we have picked up to now," Shearer said.
Former England defender Micah Richards disagreed with keeping Rice at right-back, especially for the high-altitude match in Mexico.
"No, I wouldn't. I feel he can give too much in that central midfield area.
If you're going into the Mexico game, which is going to be at altitude, you need his energy in midfield," Richards said.
Richards suggested an alternative defensive lineup: "I would go with Ezri Konsa at right-back, and put John Stones alongside Marc Guehi.
That is a better balance for the team."
Former England captain Wayne Rooney expressed concerns about the team's defensive structure when losing possession. "For me, there are big concerns.
In particular, when England lose the ball they are so open," he said.
Rooney warned that the midfield openness could be costly against stronger opponents. "Against a better team, I think we're in big trouble if we don't sort that out.
We're so open in midfield," he said.
Other round-of-16 matches include France vs Paraguay on Saturday, Spain vs either Portugal or Croatia on Monday, and the United States vs Belgium on Tuesday.
