England survive DR Congo scare, but Tuchel faces familiar problems before Mexico

England are through to face Mexico in the World Cup last 16 after Harry Kane scored twice late on to overturn a dangerous situation against DR Congo. The result spared Thomas Tuchel a major setback, but it did not remove concerns about how England are functioning.

Kane and Jude Bellingham have carried much of England’s attacking threat in the tournament, including goals in group wins over Croatia and Panama. Anthony Gordon also made a strong contribution from the bench against DR Congo, but the wider forward group has yet to consistently share the load, while Bukayo Saka is being managed carefully because of an Achilles issue.

The biggest tactical question appears to be balance. Declan Rice ending the DR Congo match at right-back underlined England’s uncertainty in that position, especially with injury issues affecting other options and Jarell Quansah missing the game. BBC pundits highlighted defensive gaps and midfield openness, both of which could be more severely punished against stronger opposition.

There is also an unresolved debate around creativity and squad use. The article points to the absence of players such as Cole Palmer and Phil Foden from the squad, while Ivan Toney and Ollie Watkins have barely featured despite being Kane’s specialist striker alternatives. England remain alive, but the Mexico match at the Azteca Stadium may reveal whether Tuchel has found solutions or is still relying on rescue acts from his biggest names.