Who’s journey ends today in World Cup

The knockout stage of the World Cup is the most ruthless yet thrilling chapter of football. One moment of error can end four years of dreams, while one perfect pass or brilliant goal can write history. Tonight brings three different stories. One features a former world champion fighting to protect their status, another has the hosts facing extra pressure of expectations, and the third pits two equally strong teams against each other in a test of tactics and courage.

In the second round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, England face the Democratic Republic of Congo in Atlanta at 10pm Bangladesh time. On paper England are favourites, but in the knockout stage, mental strength, decisive moments and the ability to seize opportunities matter more than statistics.

Declan Rice will shape England’s midfield rhythm. His main responsibilities will be ball recovery, controlling the game’s tempo and quick transitions from defence to attack. In attack, Harry Kane is not just a goalscorer but equally effective in dropping deep to create play when needed. On the right wing, Bukayo Saka can break down opponents with his pace, dribbling and one-on-one ability. Jude Bellingham will bring energy to midfield with his box-to-box runs and has the ability to change the match with long-range shots or sudden runs into the box.

DR Congo’s biggest strength lies in their physicality and organised defence. In midfield, Gaël Kakuta can open up attacks with creative passes. Up front, Cédric Bakambu becomes dangerous in front of goal with even small opportunities. In defence, Chancel Mbemba is the reliable figure in aerial duels, tackling and leadership.

In the day’s second match in San Francisco at 6am Bangladesh time, hosts United States take on Bosnia and Herzegovina. The US will have extra confidence playing in front of their own supporters. In midfield, Weston McKennie will try to control the match with his strength and pressing. Christian Pulisic will attempt to create cracks in the opposition defence from the left wing with his pace, dribbling and creativity. Timothy Weah can be a major weapon with quick attacks from the wing.

Bosnia’s main hope rests on experienced striker Edin Džeko. Despite his age, his positioning inside the box remains impressive. In midfield, Miralem Pjanić can make the difference with accurate passes and set-pieces. In defence, Anel Ahmedhodžić will try to stop US attacks with strong tackles and clearances.

In the third match in Seattle at 2am Bangladesh time, Belgium face Senegal. The two teams are nearly equal in strength. In Belgium’s attack, Jérémy Doku’s pace and dribbling could be the biggest attraction of the match. Kevin De Bruyne is capable of slicing through defences at any moment with his precise through balls and vision. Up front, Romelu Lukaku is a striker who can score whenever given a chance.

For Senegal, Nicolas Jackson is the main attacking threat, capable of keeping defences busy with his pace. In midfield, Idrissa Gueye plays a vital role in ball winning, tackling and breaking opposition attacks. In defence, Kalidou Koulibaly will give Senegal confidence with his experienced leadership and solidity.

Three matches, three different stories on this World Cup night. Somewhere a battle to keep dreams alive, somewhere an opportunity to write history, and somewhere the chance to break the balance of power and become the new hero. Who will smile in the end and who will return disappointed — the answer lies in the uncertain drama of the 90 minutes on the green grass.