England 2-1 DR Congo: Harry Kane double secures World Cup comeback

Harry Kane once again proved why he remains England's most reliable big-game performer after scoring twice to rescue the Three Lions from a stunning FIFA World Cup exit.

Thomas Tuchel's side recovered from an early deficit to beat the Democratic Republic of Congo 2-1 in Atlanta, securing progression into the Round of 16 after one of the tournament's biggest scares.

England will now travel to Mexico City's iconic Estadio Azteca to face co-hosts Mexico, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake.

DR Congo shock England early

Few expected the African underdogs to trouble England so early, but DR Congo produced an energetic start that caught Tuchel's side completely off guard.

Brian Cipenga opened the scoring after exploiting space down England's right flank, firing a powerful effort beyond Jordan Pickford to silence thousands of England supporters inside the stadium. The goal immediately unsettled England, who struggled to establish any rhythm during the opening half-hour.

DR Congo, appearing in the knockout rounds after a remarkable return to the World Cup for the first time in more than five decades, looked fearless throughout the opening period.

England waste chance after chance

Despite falling behind, England gradually assumed control of possession and began creating opportunities.

Jude Bellingham twice came close with headers, Marcus Rashford saw an effort cleared off the line, while Harry Kane was denied by outstanding goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.

The DR Congo shot-stopper produced one of the performances of the tournament, making a string of outstanding saves that repeatedly frustrated England's attack.

The African side nearly doubled their advantage before half-time when Yoane Wissa struck the outside of the post from close range.

England escaped with only a one-goal deficit.

Tuchel's substitutions change everything

Recognising his side needed greater attacking urgency, Thomas Tuchel introduced Bukayo Saka, Anthony Gordon and Eberechi Eze during the second half. The changes immediately increased England's tempo.

Gordon's direct running stretched DR Congo's defensive shape and eventually created the breakthrough England desperately needed.

His inviting cross found Kane inside the penalty area, and England's captain powered a trademark header beyond Mpasi to restore parity with just 15 minutes remaining.

Kane delivers again

With extra time looming, England's all-time leading goalscorer produced another decisive moment. Anthony Gordon again supplied the pass, but Kane still had plenty to do.

The Bayern Munich striker controlled brilliantly before smashing an unstoppable finish into the roof of the net to complete the comeback. It was Kane's fifth goal of the tournament and his 13th FIFA World Cup goal overall, strengthening his position among the competition's greatest goalscorers.

His leadership once again proved decisive when England needed it most.

Mpasi's heroics not enough

Although DR Congo ultimately exited the tournament, goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi earned widespread admiration. The Le Havre goalkeeper produced several world-class saves to deny Bellingham, Kane and Rashford throughout the contest.

Without his outstanding display, England may have secured victory much earlier. His performance was one of the finest individual goalkeeping displays seen at World Cup 2026.

England face tougher test against Mexico

England's reward is a blockbuster Round of 16 clash against tournament co-hosts Mexico. Mexico have looked one of the competition's most disciplined teams, winning all three group matches before defeating Ecuador in the knockout stage.

Playing at the intimidating Estadio Azteca will present England with one of their toughest challenges of the tournament. While England's quality eventually prevailed against DR Congo, Tuchel will know his team must improve significantly if they hope to continue their journey towards a first World Cup title since 1966.

Match Summary

England 2-1 DR Congo

Goals

• DR Congo: Brian Cipenga
• England: Harry Kane (2)

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