England’s Harry Kane scores two late goals to beat DR Congo 2-1 in World Cup last 32
England secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over DR Congo in a World Cup 2026 last-32 tie, largely thanks to two late goals from captain Harry Kane. The match, played under the roof in Atlanta, saw England trailing for much of the game, with their campaign seemingly heading towards an early exit.
DR Congo took an early lead in the seventh minute through Brian Cipenga, after a cross from Chancel Mbemba found him unmarked. The goal highlighted defensive vulnerabilities for England, with central defenders out of position and goalkeeper Jordan Pickford unable to prevent the shot from going in at his near post. This early setback created a challenging atmosphere for Thomas Tuchel‘s side.
Despite creating numerous chances throughout the first half, England were repeatedly denied by DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, who made several key saves, including two from Jude Bellingham headers and one from a Kane volley. A controversial moment occurred in the 43rd minute when Kane was brought down in the box by Mpasi, but a penalty was not awarded.
The pressure on England intensified as the clock wound down. Marcus Rashford and Noni Madueke were substituted just before the hour mark, with Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon entering the game. Tuchel made another strategic change by bringing on Eberechi Eze for Djed Spence, moving Declan Rice to right-back in an attempt to spark an attacking revival.
Kane’s decisive impact
With only 15 minutes remaining, Harry Kane finally broke DR Congo‘s resistance. He scored his first goal with a powerful header from a cross delivered by substitute Anthony Gordon. This equaliser brought a significant sense of relief to the England squad and their supporters, who had been witnessing a performance that flirted with disaster.
The decisive moment arrived with just four minutes left in regular time. Kane received a pass from Gordon, skillfully shifted the ball away from a defender, and unleashed a stunning right-foot strike high past Mpasi. This brilliant finish secured the 2-1 victory for England, preventing what head coach Thomas Tuchel described as a potential embarrassment on the scale of past major tournament losses.
Kane‘s two goals were crucial, not only for the win but also for his personal achievements. He now has five goals in the current World Cup, placing him among the top scorers in the competition. His career total for England now stands at 84 goals, putting him level with Ferenc Puskas on the all-time international scorers list. He also moved above Pele to become joint sixth on the all-time World Cup scorers list.
His teammates, including Jude Bellingham and Anthony Gordon, praised Kane‘s consistent high performance and leadership. Bellingham noted that Kane‘s season has been exceptional, with a goal tally for club and country that is among the highest. Gordon highlighted Kane‘s phenomenal consistency in training and matches, describing him as an inspiration.
Looking ahead to Mexico
The victory means England will now advance to the last 16, where they are set to face co-hosts Mexico. The upcoming match will be held at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, a venue known for its challenging conditions, including an altitude of over 7,000 feet.
England‘s most recent World Cup memories at the Estadio Azteca include their 1986 quarter-final defeat by Argentina. Mexico has a strong record at the stadium, having lost only two of their past 89 competitive games there and remaining unbeaten in 10 World Cup matches at the arena. The team will need Kane‘s continued form in what is expected to be a hostile environment.
Anthony Gordon, who provided both assists for Kane‘s goals, made a significant impact as a substitute, giving Tuchel considerations for the starting lineup against Mexico. Declan Rice also adapted well after moving to right-back following Spence‘s substitution in the 71st minute.
England‘s journey in the tournament continues to the iconic Azteca Stadium for their next challenge.
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Source: bbc.com
As News GB's Senior Football Correspondent, Lewis Hartnell reports on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side for readers across the country. He reported on south-coast football for a regional title. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Solent University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Lewis lives in Southampton, where he watches youth football and follows the transfer market. “The week's training ground decides the weekend's headlines.”
