England came from behind to defeat DR Congo 2-1 in a dramatic 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Wednesday.
Thomas Tuchel’s side looked set for a shock exit after Brian Cipenga gave the Leopards an early lead in the seventh minute. DR Congo defended resolutely for most of the contest, but Harry Kane struck twice late in the second half to send England into the Round of 16, where they will face co-hosts Mexico.
DR Congo stun England early
The underdogs made a dream start when Cipenga found space on the left flank, cut inside and fired a low shot that slipped under the outstretched arm of goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.
England struggled to respond in the opening stages, with their first clear opportunity arriving on the half-hour mark. Jude Bellingham rose to meet Declan Rice’s cross, but DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi produced an excellent save.
The Leopards nearly doubled their advantage just before halftime when Yoane Wissa struck the right post from close range after a deflected cross fell kindly for him.
Bellingham forced another smart stop from Mpasi in added time, while Kane missed a golden chance moments later when his volley from a corner was brilliantly saved.
Kane leads the fightback
England emerged with greater urgency after the break. Marcus Rashford burst through the defence on 51 minutes but could only find the side-netting.
Mpasi continued to frustrate the Three Lions, somehow keeping out a dangerous deflected cross from Bellingham that appeared destined for the net.
DR Congo also threatened on the counter, with Nathanael Mbuku’s effort on 64 minutes diverted over the crossbar by Elliot Anderson.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 75th minute. Anthony Gordon delivered a cross from the left and Kane powered a header past Mpasi, who was unable to keep it out despite getting close to the ball.
Late winner seals England victory
With extra time looming, England completed the comeback in the 86th minute. Bellingham’s shot was saved, but Gordon reacted quickly to keep the attack alive before sliding the ball to Kane.
The England captain drove into the box and smashed a powerful finish into the roof of the net for his second goal of the night and his 13th World Cup goal overall.
The victory preserves England’s unbeaten record in the tournament and sets up a highly anticipated Round of 16 encounter against Mexico.
