Harry Kane produced a late masterclass to drag England out of serious trouble, scoring twice as the Three Lions came from behind to beat the Democratic Republic of Congo 2–1 and book their place in the World Cup round of 16 in Atlanta.
For long spells, Thomas Tuchel’s side were second best and on the brink of a major upset, before their captain delivered when it mattered most to turn a potential disaster into relief.
DR Congo stunned the 70,000-strong crowd early on when Brian Cipenga punished England’s defensive lapse, finishing low past Jordan Pickford after Chancel Mbemba’s cross caused chaos down the right side. The early strike silenced the England supporters and briefly shook Tuchel’s team.
England struggled to settle, with Jude Bellingham booked after a rash challenge and later involved in a tense exchange with his coach during a hydration break as frustration began to build.
Despite flashes of pressure—Bellingham forcing a save with a header and Marcus Rashford seeing an effort blocked on the line after Noni Madueke’s run—England went into the break fortunate to be only one goal down. DR Congo even came close to doubling their lead, with Yoane Wissa striking the post from close range.
After the restart, England still laboured in front of goal until Tuchel turned to his bench, introducing Bukayo Saka, Anthony Gordon and Eberechi Eze to inject urgency and width.
The changes finally shifted momentum.
Gordon’s delivery broke the deadlock as Kane powered a downward header past the DR Congo goalkeeper to level the match with 15 minutes remaining. And just when extra time looked inevitable, England struck again.
In the 86th minute, Gordon was once again the provider, but Kane did the damage himself—finding space inside a crowded box before unleashing a thunderous finish into the roof of the net to complete the turnaround.
It was a brutal blow for DR Congo, who had impressed throughout the tournament but saw their historic run come to an end. For England, it was survival by firepower rather than control, with their captain once again the difference-maker on the big stage.
Kane’s brace takes him to five goals in the tournament and further cements his place among the competition’s leading scorers.
England now advance—but questions remain over their defensive stability and overall rhythm after a performance that was far from convincing for large stretches.
Next Round
England will face co-hosts Mexico in the World Cup round of 16 at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
