Marcus Rashford could face childhood friend Axel Tuanzebe in a high-stakes World Cup last-32 tie as England prepare to meet DR Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday — a personal subplot that highlights the divergent international paths of two academy peers and poses a clear tactical test for Thomas Tuchel's side.
England v DR Congo: Rashford and Tuanzebe set for emotionally charged World Cup clash
Marcus Rashford is likely to start for England as Thomas Tuchel names his XI for the World Cup last-32 in Atlanta, while Axel Tuanzebe is an ever-present in DR Congo's back line. The fixture pits two former Manchester United teammates and schoolfriends against one another on football’s biggest stage.
From Ashton on Mersey to opposite ends of the pitch
Rashford and Tuanzebe both grew up in Sale and attended Ashton on Mersey School, progressing through Manchester United’s academy together. Rashford went on to establish himself as a leading attacker, making 426 appearances for United. Tuanzebe managed 37 first-team outings before a series of loans and a permanent move to Ipswich, and he is now playing for Burnley.
Tuanzebe’s switch to DR Congo adds meaning
Born in Bunia, DR Congo, Tuanzebe switched allegiance in 2024 after representing England at youth level. His decision carries weight beyond sport: he has spoken about the responsibility he feels to bring hope to a country affected by long-standing conflict. Tuanzebe scored the decisive goal in DR Congo’s 1-0 play-off win over Jamaica that secured the nation’s first World Cup qualification since 1974.
Recent form and tournament context
DR Congo reached the knockout stage after a 1-1 draw with Portugal, a narrow 1-0 defeat to Colombia and a 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan. Tuanzebe has played every minute of their group campaign. England arrive as favorites but must guard against underestimating a DR Congo side buoyed by momentum and emotional purpose.
Tactical subplot: how Tuanzebe can try to stop Rashford
This duel is as much about contrasting profiles as it is about history. Rashford’s game is built on pace, angled runs and finishing; Tuanzebe offers height, physicality and aerial presence. If DR Congo deploys a compact defensive shape and uses Tuanzebe to patrol central channels, they can force England to rely on combination play rather than individual bursts. Conversely, Tuchel’s likely response is to stretch the backline and exploit Rashford’s speed in transition.
Why this match matters
Beyond progression in the World Cup, the tie carries symbolic resonance: two childhood friends now represent different national narratives. For England, the priority is pragmatic — win and advance — but selecting Rashford signals intent to attack. For DR Congo, a positive result would validate their return to football’s global stage and amplify Tuanzebe’s pledge to use the sport as a platform for national pride.
What to watch
- Rashford’s starting role and how England target DR Congo’s defensive shape.
- Tuanzebe’s assignments on set plays and his influence organizing the back line.
- DR Congo’s ability to convert physical commitment into sustained pressure on England’s full-backs.
Outlook
This is a classic World Cup subplot that matters on and off the pitch. Tactically tight, emotionally charged and packed with narrative — the match should reveal whether personal histories translate into on-field impact.
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Tuchel must balance attack-minded selection with defensive caution; DR Congo will lean on unity and the momentum that carried them to their first World Cup in five decades.
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