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Wayne Rooney has sounded the alarm over England’s World Cup hopes, warning that the team could be in “big trouble” if they fail to improve after a laboured showing against DR Congo.

Thomas Tuchel’s side produced an uninspired performance for much of the match, struggling to impose themselves and conceding after just seven minutes. Despite late goals from captain Harry Kane—both assisted by substitute Anthony Gordon—England’s disjointed display has left many, including Rooney, unconvinced.

“For me there are big concerns,” Rooney said while speaking on the BBC after the game. “We are all delighted England have gone through—but in particular, when England lose the ball, they are so open. Against a better team, I think we are in big trouble if we don’t sort that out.”

The former England captain, who knows the pressures of international tournaments all too well, was critical of the lack of cohesion throughout Tuchel’s lineup. “The connection isn’t great between the backline and midfield, the full-backs are struggling, [Noni] Madueke struggled,” he added. “There are just no connections and big gaps in the middle of the pitch and that is a big worry for me. He [Tuchel] really needs to look at that otherwise we will go out.”

England’s defensive structure was repeatedly exposed by DR Congo, with the back four often left chasing after misplaced passes and failing to maintain shape. Both Marcus Rashford and Noni Madueke were singled out for underwhelming wing play, while the midfield lacked control or urgency in transition.

Tuchel will now have to address these issues quickly as England prepare for a challenging round-of-16 clash against co-hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca on Sunday. The match is set to kick off at 6 p.m. local time (1 a.m. UK time), and the winners will meet either Brazil or Norway in the quarter-finals next weekend.

Mexico, meanwhile, have looked formidable so far, having maintained a perfect record through the group stage and the round of 32 without conceding a single goal. The contrast in form leaves Tuchel with a demanding task if England are to progress further in the tournament.