Atlanta: Kane’s late double secures England’s progression to last 16
England overcomes early deficit
England secured a 2-1 victory over DR Congo in the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup, with captain Harry Kane scoring two late goals. The match, held in Atlanta, saw England come from behind after an early goal from Brian Cipenga put DR Congo in the lead. The win ensures England‘s progression to the last 16, where they are set to face Mexico at the Estadio Azteca.
The game proved to be a challenging encounter for Thomas Tuchel‘s side, who struggled with defensive lapses and missed opportunities for much of the match. DR Congo‘s goalkeeper, Lionel Mpasi, delivered a strong performance, making several key saves throughout the game to deny England‘s attackers.
DR Congo took the lead in the seventh minute through Brian Cipenga. The goal originated from a cross by DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba, which found Cipenga unmarked on the far side. England‘s central defenders were out of position, and right-back Djed Spence was drawn towards Noah Sadiki, leaving Cipenga free to control the ball and score past Jordan Pickford.
The early goal highlighted defensive vulnerabilities for England. Jordan Pickford‘s positioning for the opening goal was noted, and he was later saved by the goalpost from a shot by Yoane Wissa. Djed Spence, who started at right-back, was frequently beaten by DR Congo‘s wingers and appeared nervous defensively, eventually being replaced in the 71st minute.
Kane’s decisive intervention
Despite creating numerous chances, England found it difficult to convert, largely due to Mpasi‘s saves. Jude Bellingham had two headers saved, and Kane saw a volley denied. A penalty appeal for Kane in the 43rd minute, after he was fouled by Mpasi, was dismissed by the referee, Adham Makhadmeh, without VAR intervention.
England manager Thomas Tuchel made changes in the second half to inject more attacking impetus. Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon were introduced in the 61st minute, replacing Noni Madueke and Marcus Rashford, both of whom had struggled to make an impact. Rashford, in particular, faced criticism from supporters after overhitting a cross.
The turning point came with Kane‘s late double. His first goal, an equaliser, was a close-range header from a cross delivered by substitute Anthony Gordon. This goal brought significant relief to the England squad and their supporters, shifting the momentum of the game.
Kane‘s second goal, which secured the victory, was a powerful strike into the top of the net from an angle to the right of the goal. This decisive finish ensured England‘s passage to the next stage of the tournament. Anthony Gordon was instrumental in both goals, providing two assists after coming on as a substitute.
The introduction of Eberechi Eze for Djed Spence in the 71st minute, which saw Declan Rice move to right-back, also proved effective. Gordon‘s ability to chase down loose balls and set up Kane‘s header was crucial in breaking DR Congo‘s resistance.
Looking ahead to the next round
The victory marks England‘s ninth knockout round win since 1966, achieved after a challenging performance. While the result was positive, the team’s display suggested areas for improvement, particularly in defence and composure under pressure. Jude Bellingham, despite being booked early, was noted as England‘s most consistent attacking threat, creating several opportunities.
Declan Rice, returning from a calf injury, started the match and later moved to right-back after Spence‘s substitution, performing better in that role. His pass to Gordon, which led to Kane‘s equaliser, was a key moment in the game. Rice was eventually replaced in the 92nd minute by John Stones.
England will now prepare for their last-16 tie against Mexico, scheduled to take place at the Estadio Azteca. The team will aim to build on this hard-fought victory as they continue their campaign in the 2026 World Cup.
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Source: theguardian.com
