England came from behind to secure a dramatic 2–1 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo, with captain Harry Kane scoring twice in the closing stages to send the Three Lions into the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
England booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after staging a remarkable comeback to beat DR Congo 2–1 in a thrilling Round of 32 encounter at Atlanta Stadium. Harry Kane scored two late goals to rescue Thomas Tuchel’s side after the African nation had stunned England with an early opener.
DR Congo took a surprise lead in the seventh minute through Brian Cipenga, who capitalised on a defensive lapse to put the underdogs ahead.
England dominated possession for much of the contest but struggled to break down a disciplined Congolese defence, with goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi producing a series of impressive saves.
The breakthrough finally came in the 75th minute when Harry Kane headed home from an Anthony Gordon cross before the England captain completed the comeback in the 86th minute with a powerful strike from outside the penalty area.
The victory keeps England’s hopes of winning a second FIFA World Cup alive after surviving what many considered one of the toughest tests of the knockout stage.
Kane’s brace also extended his remarkable scoring record for England, taking his World Cup tally to 13 goals and further cementing his place among the country’s greatest goalscorers. England will now face co-hosts Mexico in the Round of 16.
England manager Thomas Tuchel praised his team’s resilience, saying the substitutes changed the momentum of the match and highlighting the character shown after conceding early.
Despite the defeat, DR Congo earned praise for a spirited performance that pushed one of the tournament favourites to the limit before bowing out of the competition.
England’s comeback victory ensures the Three Lions remain in contention for World Cup glory, while DR Congo exit the tournament with their heads held high after an impressive campaign that exceeded many expectations. Attention now turns to England’s Round of 16 clash against Mexico as the knockout stages continue.