England kept their World Cup campaign alive on Wednesday by overcoming DR Congo 2-1 in the Round of 32 to book their place in the last 16.
Much like several of their group-stage performances, however, it was far from convincing.
Thomas Tuchel’s side fell behind after just seven minutes and struggled to find any rhythm for much of the first half, heading into the break trailing 1-0.
England emerged after half-time with renewed purpose and created a host of opportunities, only to be repeatedly denied by an inspired display from the DR Congo goalkeeper.
Then came Harry Kane.
The England captain once again proved the difference, scoring twice in the space of 11 minutes to complete a dramatic turnaround.
His first arrived in the 75th minute before he produced a superb solo finish from just inside the penalty area in the 86th to seal England’s place in the Round of 16.
England open as Sky Bet favourites against Mexico despite unconvincing DR Congo display
Despite the comeback, England’s overall display left plenty of questions unanswered ahead of a significantly tougher assignment.
Standing in their way are hosts Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium. Mexico looked impressive in their own Round of 32 victory, comfortably defeating Ecuador 2-0, and the margin could easily have been greater had they been more clinical in front of goal.
Yet, despite England’s unconvincing display and Mexico’s dominant performance, the bookmakers still favour the Three Lions. Sky Bet has England priced at 8/11 to progress, while Mexico are 11/10 underdogs.
Those odds will surprise many given the challenge awaiting Tuchel’s side. Mexico boast one of the most formidable home records in international football, suffering just two defeats in 89 competitive matches at the famed Azteca Stadium.
England may be the bookmakers’ favourites, but if they are to justify that tag, they will almost certainly need to produce a performance far more convincing than the one that saw them scrape past DR Congo.
- All odds are correct at the time of publication
