Why choose a 4-3-3 against DR Congo?

A 4-3-3 gives England midfield dominance, allows Bellingham to push into scoring positions, and supplies two quick wingers to exploit space behind Congo's full-backs while keeping defensive cover.

Who should be on the bench as impact subs?

Bring on a fresh winger and a midfielder after 60 minutes — options like Raheem Sterling or an energetic central midfielder can change tempo and exploit tiring defenders.

What is the main risk with this XI?

The main risk is set-piece vulnerability and occasional lapses in concentration; Rice must screen diligently and the back four must stay compact to avoid Congo counter threats.

Pick the XI: The Guru’s England blueprint to silence DR Congo

England cannot afford to treat DR Congo like a friendly; African teams arrive with pace, altitude-hardened legs and a willingness to unsettle. The key is respect without panic: pick a side that dominates the middle of the park, defuses set-piece chaos and forces Congo to play on the back foot.

My selection is pragmatic and ruthless — a 4-3-3 that wins the center and punishes in transition. Jordan Pickford in goal; Kyle Walker, John Stones, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw across the back. In midfield Declan Rice sits, Jude Bellingham drives forward and Phil Foden links play. Up front, Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford provide width and directness around Harry Kane.

This XI does three things: it locks the channels that Congo like to exploit, it gives Bellingham licence to become a second striker, and it keeps a steady screening presence in Rice to repel counters. Full-backs must be selective in their forays — Walker’s recovery pace and Shaw’s delivery are tactical weapons, not substitution fodder. Use subs after 60 minutes to inject fresh legs on the wings and keep the tempo high when Congo start to tire.

The Guru’s recommendation is blunt: do not experiment; start with balance, manage the game, and finish clinically. My predicted XI — Pickford; Walker, Stones, Maguire, Shaw; Rice, Bellingham, Foden; Saka, Kane, Rashford — should control possession and convert a couple of chances, probably a 2-0 win, provided England respect Congo's physicality and tidy up set-piece defending.