Thursday July 2, 2026
Harry Kane acknowledged the crowd after England’s round-of-32 meeting with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, United States, on July 1, 2026. (Xinhua/Xu Zijian)
Harry Kane struck twice after halftime to haul England out of trouble and into the World Cup last 16 with a 2-1 win over DR Congo on Wednesday.
Ranked fourth in the world, England entered the tournament with a 4-2 opening victory over Croatia, then settled for a scoreless draw with Ghana. The Three Lions later confirmed first place in Group L and booked their place in the round of 32 with a win over Panama in their final group match.
DR Congo, meanwhile, reached the round of 32 from Group K after drawing with Portugal, narrowly losing 1-0 to Colombia and defeating Uzbekistan.
Far from overawed by England’s standing and deeper squad value, DR Congo began boldly and took the initiative from the first whistle. In the seventh minute, space opened on England’s right side and striker Brian Cipenga timed his run to meet a pass before finishing unmarked to give DR Congo the lead.
England responded as the first half wore on, with Marcus Rashford and Jude Bellingham both going close to an equalizer. Even while spending more time without the ball, DR Congo remained dangerous in attack and combined neatly in transition. In the 41st minute, forward Yoane Wissa surged into the area and hit the right post, leaving England relieved to escape another scare.
The pressure continued to build for England in stoppage time, when Bellingham and captain Kane each fashioned promising chances. Yet DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi kept his team in front with a string of important saves.
England maintained control of possession after the break, but the breakthrough proved elusive as the minutes slipped away. The tension rose steadily, and so did the anxiety on the pitch as the match edged toward its conclusion.
Kane then stepped in to rescue England, scoring twice in just over 10 minutes to complete a memorable comeback.
The England captain levelled in the 75th minute, heading home from close range after connecting with a cross into the box.
Just 11 minutes later, Kane produced the decisive moment, shaking free of his marker at the edge of the area before blasting a powerful shot past the goalkeeper to turn the match around.
England will face Mexico in the round of 16.
