England scraped past DR Congo 2-1 in Atlanta thanks to a late Harry Kane brace, but the performance left pundits worried about the team's defensive solidity ahead of a last-16 clash with Mexico at the Estadio Azteca.
At its simplest, England are through to the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after finishing second in their group. They now face Mexico on Monday, July 6 at the famous Azteca stadium. But the manner of the victory over DR Congo—conceding an early goal and looking vulnerable at the back—has raised questions about manager Thomas Tuchel's setup, particularly at right-back.
“Analysis of England's World Cup 2026 defensive struggles and the upcoming Mexico test.”
England's defensive issues are not new. Against DR Congo, Djed Spence struggled to contain winger Brian Cipenga, who scored after just seven minutes, unmarked at the back post. Former England striker Wayne Rooney, commentating for the BBC, pointed out that the connection between defence and midfield was poor, leaving gaps in the middle of the pitch. He argued that when Tino Livramento was forced to leave the tournament through injury, Tuchel should have called up retired defender Kyle Walker instead of selecting Trevoh Chalobah. Declan Rice, who played at right-back, admitted it is not his best position. Micah Richards also criticised Spence's display.
For UK readers, England's World Cup hopes are a matter of national pride and summer entertainment. A last-16 exit would be a major disappointment, especially after reaching the final in 2020 and the semi-finals in 2018. The Mexico match carries extra weight because the Azteca is a fortress—Mexico have a famously strong home record, and England will face a hostile crowd. Rooney warned that if England do not sort out their defensive structure, they could be in "big trouble" against a better side.
Q: Why is Kyle Walker being mentioned despite being retired from international football? A: Wayne Rooney suggested that Tuchel should have asked Walker to come out of retirement when Livramento got injured, arguing that Walker is still good enough for the team. He believes the decision not to do so could cost England.
Q: What are England's defensive weaknesses according to pundits? A: Rooney and Richards highlighted poor full-back play (Spence and Rice struggling), a lack of connection between the back line and midfield, and large gaps in the middle of the pitch that opponents can exploit.
Q: Who will England play next in the World Cup? A: England face Mexico in the round of 16 at the Estadio Azteca on Monday, July 6. Mexico are a strong side with a formidable home record, making it a daunting test for the Three Lions.
What happens next: England must address their defensive issues before the Mexico match. Tuchel may consider changing personnel or formation. The game on July 6 will determine if England progress to the quarter-finals or exit the tournament.