The FIFA World Cup Round of 32 continues on Wednesday night and early Thursday as six nations battle for three places in the last 16. England take on D.R. Congo as heavy favourites, while Belgium face an in form Senegal side in what promises to be one of the most competitive ties of the round. Hosts USA also return to action against Bosnia & Herzegovina as they look to secure their place in the round of 16. We look at each match from a betting angle below.
England vs D.R. Congo
England progressed to the Round of 32 after finishing top of Group L with seven points. They opened their campaign with an entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia before being held to a goalless draw against Ghana.
Their final group fixture saw them comfortably defeat Panama 2-0 as Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane found the net to ensure England advanced unbeaten.
D.R. Congo qualified for the knockout stages after finishing third in Group K with four points. They began with an impressive 1-1 draw against Portugal before suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat against Colombia despite producing a competitive performance.
Qualification was secured in dramatic fashion during their final group match as they came from behind to defeat Uzbekistan 3-1, with Yoane Wissa scoring twice after the break to book their place in the Round of 32.
Head-to-Head
There have been no previous meetings between these nations.
Betting – Click here to bet
England 1.29
Draw 5.75
D.R. Congo 12.00
Verdict
England have looked composed throughout the tournament, remaining unbeaten while conceding only two goals in three matches. D.R. Congo deserve credit for reaching the knockout stages and showed great character against Uzbekistan, but England possess superior quality across the pitch and should have enough to progress comfortably in what I think will be an open game.
BET: England to Win and Over 2.5 Goals at 2.05
Belgium vs Senegal
Belgium reached the playoffs after finishing first in Group G with five points. They opened the tournament with back-to-back draws against Egypt and Iran before producing their best display of the competition in the final group match.
The side stepped up to the plate and thrashed New Zealand 5-1, with Leandro Trossard scoring twice as Belgium secured qualification.
Senegal also advanced after finishing third in Group I with three points, qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams. They opened with a difficult 3-1 defeat against France before narrowly losing 3-2 to Norway despite an encouraging attacking display.
Their final group clash saw them bounce back in outstanding style by hammering Iraq 5-0, restoring confidence ahead of the knockout rounds.
Head-to-Head
There have been no previous meetings between these nations.
Betting – Click here to bet
Belgium 2.15
Draw 3.25
Senegal 3.75
Verdict
This has all the ingredients of a closely contested encounter. Belgium finally found their attacking rhythm against New Zealand, while Senegal responded brilliantly after consecutive defeats with a dominant five goal display. Both teams have shown they can create chances, making goals look the best angle in what should be exciting but tight matchup.
BET: Both Teams to Score – Yes at 1.91
Terms and conditions
- The promotion runs from 1 June to 19 July 2026.
- To qualify for the R20 Free Bet reward, a real money stake of R100 or more must be placed on any FIFA market during the promotional period.
- Free bets do not qualify for this offer. Single/Straight bets only.
- Free Bet adjustments may take up to 72 hours to process and will be loaded automatically.
- Free Bets may only be used on FIFA World Cup markets.
- Any Free Bets not used before 23:59:59 on 19 July 2026 will expire and will be forfeited.
- This promotion is strictly limited to one (1) reward per account.
- Standard World Sports Betting Promotional Terms apply.
- Free Bet T&Cs apply.
USA vs Bosnia & Herzegovina
USA qualified for the Round of 32 after finishing first in Group D with six points. They opened their campaign with a convincing 4-1 victory over Paraguay before producing another disciplined performance to defeat Australia 2-0 and seal progression.
Their last group fixture ended in a narrow 3-2 defeat against Turkey, although the Americans had already done enough to secure their place in the knockout stages and will be looking to find form again.
Bosnia & Herzegovina progressed after finishing third in Group B with four points. They began with a 1-1 draw against Canada before suffering a heavy 4-1 defeat to Switzerland that left qualification hanging in the balance.
Their final outing saw them respond impressively with a 3-1 victory over Qatar, comfortably securing their place in the Round of 32.
Head-to-Head
USA are unbeaten in the previous three meetings between these nations, recording two victories and one draw. Their most recent encounter came in an International Friendly during 2021 where the Americans secured a 1-0 victory.
Betting – Click here to bet
USA 1.38
Draw 5.25
Bosnia & Herzegovina 9.00
Verdict
USA have been one of the more consistent teams in the tournament, winning their opening two matches before pushing Turkey all the way despite already being qualified. Bosnia & Herzegovina deserve respect after their recovery against Qatar but have struggled defensively against stronger opposition. I think USA should control the match and can win by 2 goals or more.
BET: USA Asian Handicap -1.5 at 2.00
Note: All prices are correct at the time of writing but are subject to change.
