Predict the World Cup knockout stages! Plot who will lift the trophy

England’s World Cup campaign has reached a pivotal moment. With the knockout rounds now in sight, the Three Lions face a daunting but navigable path to the final. Thomas Tuchel’s side secured their place in the last 32 with a 2-1 victory over Denmark on Saturday, a result that arrived after a nervy 1-1 draw with Senegal in their final group-stage match. The stage is set for high drama, tactical battles, and the chance for one nation to claim the ultimate prize.

England’s knockout draw: a test of nerve and tactics

England’s first knockout tie arrives on Wednesday against DR Congo, a team ranked 57th in the world and unbeaten in their last five matches ahead of this tournament. A victory there would set up a potential clash with Mexico, a side ranked 14th and featuring Liga MX’s top scorer Santiago Giménez, before a possible quarter-final against Brazil and a semi-final against Argentina. Should England progress further, the final awaits against Spain, currently ranked 8th and boasting a squad with an average age of just 24.2 years. Each step will demand composure, resilience, and tactical precision from Tuchel’s squad, who have conceded just twice in their last six matches.

The draw presents a clear hierarchy of challenges. DR Congo offers an opportunity to build momentum, while Mexico and Brazil represent familiar opponents with contrasting styles. Argentina, if reached, would bring Lionel Messi’s final World Cup appearance into sharp focus, particularly after his assist in Argentina’s 2-0 win over Nigeria. Spain, meanwhile, would test England’s ability to control possession and dictate tempo in a high-pressure final, having averaged 62% possession in their group-stage fixtures.

Can Tuchel’s England handle the pressure?

England’s progression to the knockout stages has been steady rather than spectacular. Tuchel has reshaped the team’s identity, prioritising defensive solidity and structured build-up play, a system that has seen them concede just once in open play during the group stage. The challenge now is to adapt to the knockout mentality—where one mistake can end a tournament. The manager’s track record in big games will be scrutinised, particularly after his Champions League success with Chelsea in 2021, a campaign that included victories over Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid.

The squad’s depth and versatility will be crucial. Injuries or suspensions could derail even the most carefully laid plans. England’s ability to rotate without losing rhythm will be tested, especially if they face multiple high-intensity matches in quick succession. The mental fortitude of the players, many of whom have never experienced a World Cup knockout tie, will also come under the microscope—Jordan Henderson and Harry Kane have both described the transition from group stages to knockout football as a “step change” in intensity.

Who will lift the trophy?

The World Cup knockout stages are unpredictable by nature. Favourites can stumble, underdogs can rise, and moments of individual brilliance can decide games. Based on current form and rankings, Brazil, Argentina, and France remain the most likely contenders. Spain’s technical prowess and England’s growing cohesion could see them break through, but the margins are razor-thin. Brazil’s attacking trio of Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Endrick has already combined for five goals in the group stage, while Argentina’s defence has conceded just two goals in their last seven matches.

A dark horse like Portugal or the Netherlands might exploit a weakness in the traditional powerhouses. DR Congo’s potential run, though unlikely, would be one of the tournament’s most compelling narratives—particularly after their 1-0 win over Italy in the group stage. The beauty of the knockout phase lies in its ability to produce shocks—where David can slay Goliath, and legends are made in a single match. For England, the opportunity is there. Whether they seize it depends on execution, adaptability, and a touch of luck. The stage is set, the stakes are sky-high, and the world will be watching.