Harry Kane scored twice in the final 15 minutes to fire England into the World Cup last 16, as Thomas Tuchel's side came from behind to beat DR Congo
Harry Kane scored twice in the final 15 minutes to fire England into the World Cup last 16, as Thomas Tuchel’s side came from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 in the Round of 32 in Atlanta.
DR Congo stunned the pre-match favourites early, taking the lead in the seventh minute when Chancel Mbemba’s long ball forced its way through England’s defence, allowing Brian Cipenga to slot low past Jordan Pickford at his near post.
The goal marked a historic moment for the Central Africans, playing their first World Cup knockout match since competing as Zaire in 1974.
England struggled to find a way through a resolute DR Congo defence for long periods. Jude Bellingham’s two headers were well saved by goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, while Yoane Wissa came close to doubling DR Congo’s lead but struck the post for the Leopards.
Tuchel turned to his bench to change the game, and the substitutions paid off. Kane headed in a cross from substitute Anthony Gordon to level the score with a quarter of an hour remaining, before rifling home a stunning 86th-minute winner to complete the comeback.
The double takes Kane above Brazil legend Pelé, moving him to 13 career World Cup goals, cementing his status as England’s all-time leading scorer at the tournament.
DR Congo can hold their heads high despite the defeat, having pushed a talented England side to the brink in their maiden knockout appearance. For Tuchel’s men, the win — following a goalless draw with Ghana and a narrow victory over Panama in the group stage — sets up a mouth-watering last-16 tie against co-hosts Mexico. The match will be played at the famous Estadio Azteca, kicking off at 1 am BST on Monday 6 July.
England will need to sharpen up defensively after being caught out early once again, but Kane’s continued brilliance in front of goal gives Tuchel’s side genuine belief they can go deep into the tournament.
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