Madueke urges England to stay sharp before DRC knockout test

Noni Madueke has cautioned that England cannot treat the Democratic Republic of the Congo as a straightforward opponent in their World Cup last-32 tie in Atlanta. The England winger expects a demanding game and wants a cleaner attacking performance than the one seen in the goalless draw with Ghana.

The concern for England is familiar: opponents sitting deep, reducing space and looking to counter. The DRC are expected to pose a similar tactical problem, and their squad includes Premier League-based players such as Yoane Wissa and Noah Sidiki, giving England another reason to approach the match carefully.

Madueke’s own role is also part of the selection picture. He started against Croatia and Ghana, while Bukayo Saka came in for the win over Panama and is expected to remain on the right side of the attack. Madueke framed that competition as a positive pressure at both Arsenal and England level.

England have also worked on penalties, with Madueke noting the mental side of spot-kicks as well as the technical details. For a knockout match where margins can narrow quickly, England’s challenge is not only to control the game but to be ready if it stretches beyond normal time.