England vs DR Congo FIFA World Cup: England recovered from an early setback to book their place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026, defeating DR Congo 2-1 in a dramatic knockout clash in Atlanta.
Harry Kane delivered when it mattered most, scoring twice in the closing stages to overturn the deficit and keep England's campaign alive. Thomas Tuchel's side will now face tournament co-hosts Mexico in the Round of 16 at the Mexico City Stadium on July 5. The victory also ended a long-standing unwanted record, as England claimed their first-ever win after trailing at half-time in the tournament.
DR Congo Shock England With Dream Start
Making their first appearance in a World Cup knockout fixture, DR Congo stunned England inside the opening 10 minutes. Chancel Mbemba helped the ball on from a cross-field delivery, finding Brian Cipenga unmarked inside the penalty area.
The winger made no mistake, drilling a low finish past Jordan Pickford for his maiden international goal.
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England gradually settled after the early blow and created several opportunities before the interval. Jude Bellingham twice came close with headers, but goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi produced outstanding saves to deny him.
Marcus Rashford also threatened after clever work from Noni Madueke, only for Aaron Wan-Bissaka to make a crucial goal-line clearance. Kane himself was denied from close range just before the break as Mpasi continued his impressive display.
At the other end, DR Congo nearly doubled their advantage when Yoane Wissa struck the post following another dangerous attack.
Kane Inspires England Turnaround
Tuchel reshuffled his attack after the interval, introducing fresh legs on the wings in search of an equaliser. The move paid immediate dividends.
Substitute Anthony Gordon delivered a pinpoint cross into the area, where Kane rose highest to power home the leveller with just 15 minutes remaining.
With momentum firmly behind them, England continued to push forward, and Kane completed the turnaround moments later. The striker shrugged off his marker before firing a powerful strike beyond Mpasi to seal the comeback victory.
The win preserved England's unbeaten World Cup record against African opposition and ensured their tournament journey continues. For DR Congo, the defeat marked the end of a spirited campaign, but their historic run to the knockout stage and fearless display against one of Europe's heavyweights earned widespread admiration.
Author : Suyash Sahay