Predicting England's World Cup starting XI for Mexico Azteca showdown

England never make it easy, and it was the same against DR Congo, who looked like they were heading for the Round of 16 after an early goal from Brian Cipenga put them 1-0 up. 

Three Lions captain Harry Kane had other ideas, and scored two goals in 11 minutes to drag England into the next round where they will now face tournament co-hosts Mexico. 

The build-up to this last 16 clash has been heightened with the two teams meeting at the Azteca, where Mexico have thrived at this World Cup. 

England's largely lacklustre performance against DR Congo saw a number of players come under serious scrutiny which could cost their place in Thomas Tuchel's starting XI. 

Ahead of kick-off in Mexico City, DAZN News predicts England's starting line-up for a big test against Mexico. 

GOALKEEPER: Jordan Pickford

Jordan Pickford could have done better to stop Cipenga's strike, which gave DR Congo the lead, but he will not be ousted for one error. 

Against Mexico, Pickford cannot afford a single lapse in concentration in what will be a cauldron atmosphere at the Azteca. 

Depth chart: Dean Henderson, James Trafford

RIGHT BACK: Djed Spence

Djed Spence will not be a name the majority of England fans will not want to see on the teamsheet. 

He was struggling against DR Congo and got replaced in the second half, with Declan Rice providing a more solid performance after being moved from midfield. 

It is not yet known if Reece James will be fit enough to play as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury, but it's looking increasingly likely the Chelsea captain will not be ready to face Mexico on Sunday. 

Depth chart: Ezri Konsa

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CENTRE BACKS: Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa 

While Tuchel has been someone to frequently change his team selection, being consistent is crucial in the knockout stages as players get used to playing with each other. 

Therefore, Marc Guehi and Ezri Konsa will continue to be the go-to pairing in defence after playing together in England's last three World Cup matches. 

Depth chart: John Stones, Dan Burn, Trevoh Chalobah, Jarell Quansah

LEFT BACK: Nico O'Reilly

Nico O'Reilly will keep his place at left back to keep England's back four consistent. 

Depth chart: Djed Spence

CENTRAL MIDFIELDERS: Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice

Elliot Anderson struggled against DR Congo, with his passes often finding opposition players. 

However, this could be just a blip, and Anderson will no doubt rise to the big occasion of this match, and could not have a better midfield partner in Declan Rice, who is no stranger to high-stakes England matches. 

Depth chart: Jordan Henderson, Kobbie Mainoo

RIGHT WING: Bukayo Saka

Noni Madueke had a match to forget, and simply cannot start against Mexico. 

Madueke may have the speed to cause problems on the wing, but he is struggling to create any meaningful chances, and there needs to be a change. 

Tuchel has been carefully managing Bukayo Saka's fitness, but now he has to start the Arsenal man. 

Saka has the confidence to take players on with the ball at his feet, and also has the ability to make a chance out of nothing, and England will need this if they are to give themselves the best chance of beating Mexico.

Depth chart: Noni Madueke, Marcus Rashford

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ATTACKING MIDFIELD / NUMBER 10: Jude Bellingham

Arguably England's most important player after Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham will be starting. 

Depth chart: Morgan Rogers

LEFT WING: Anthony Gordon

Another change will come on the left wing after Marcus Rashford failed to offer much in attack, whilst being a problem in defence, where he was at fault for DR Congo's opener. 

Anthony Gordon will be the man to replace him, he set up both of Kane's goals, and also offers a more direct threat in attack as he is another player who is not afraid to charge at the opposition and take them on. 

Depth chart: Marcus Rashford, Eberechi Eze

STRIKER: Harry Kane 

Harry Kane is England's star man and best chance of winning this tournament. 

He needs to start and play every minute. 

Depth chart: Ollie Watkins, Ivan Toney, Marcus Rashford

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